Pineapple Palm

The Pineapple Palm, more commonly known as the Canary Island Date Palm or by its scientific name Phoenix canariensis, is a majestic palm tree native to the Canary Islands. It's well-known for its distinctive appearance, with a thick, textured trunk and a lush crown of fronds, which resemble a pineapple's rough skin, hence the common name.

In cultivation, Pineapple Palms can grow to an impressive height of 20 to 50 feet, with a spread of 10 to 15 feet. The tree has a single, robust trunk that is often wider at the base and covered with a patterned texture of old leaf scars. The crown is composed of large, arching fronds that can reach lengths of up to 15 to 20 feet. The fronds are deep green and create a dense, rounded canopy.

One of the notable features of Phoenix canariensis is its slow growth rate. The tree can take many years to reach its full height but is long-lived. This palm also produces ornamental orange dates, which are not typically considered edible due to their poor taste.

Pineapple Palms thrive in full sun and require well-draining soil. They are fairly drought-tolerant once established but benefit from regular watering during dry periods. While they can tolerate some cold, they are best suited to warmer climates and may require protection in areas with freezing temperatures.

In landscaping, Pineapple Palms are often used as specimen trees due to their grand size and striking appearance. They are popular in public spaces, large gardens, and along streets and avenues in warm climates. The Pineapple Palm is also an excellent choice for creating a dramatic and exotic landscape effect.

Overall, the Pineapple Palm is a stunning and iconic tree, valued for its tropical appearance and the stately presence it adds to any landscape. Its size and distinctive look make it a favorite for adding a touch of elegance and drama to larger outdoor spaces.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Pineapple Palm

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun to partial shade (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth)
• Soil: Well-drained, loamy or sandy soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 4-6 feet apart to allow for their upright, palm-like form
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Pineapple Palm may need light staking during early growth but becomes self-supporting once established

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 4-5 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 2-3 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Pineapple Palm is considered established after 6-8 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 7-10 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 5-7 days. Provide 3-4 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 12-18 inches away from the base of the plant for deep watering
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 2-4 gallons per hour
• Number of Emitters: 1-2 emitters per plant for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering to every 5-7 days. In winter, reduce to every 4-6 weeks