Overview
Phoenix pusilla is a bushy conservatory greenhouse in the genus Phoenix, part of the Arecaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Phoenix pusilla grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1B. Suggested uses include patio and container plants.
About
Phoenix pusilla (pusilla, Latin: tiny or weak), the Ceylon date palm or flour palm, is a species of flowering plant in the palm family, native to southern India and Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon). They are found in lowlands, ridges and on hills. No taller than 5 m (16 ft), this species is usually single-stemmed but clumps do occur naturally. At 25 cm (9.8 in) in diameter, the trunks are covered with distinct leaf-base scars, forming a 'wicker' pattern. Grow it in full sun and partial shade and most soil types. In UK gardens it needs subtropical warmth and glass protection in the UK (RHS H1b). It works well for patio and container plants. It tolerates soil of any pH, moist but well-drained conditions and east-facing aspects. Plant in well-drained soil. Water during establishment.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Phoenix pusilla
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Phoenix
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1B
Plant details
Phoenix pusilla size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conservatory Greenhouse, Palms
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Patio and container plants
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Phoenix pusilla
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed sown at 19 to 24°C in spring
- Pest resistance
- scale insect and glasshouse red spider mite may be a problem under glass
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Phoenix pusilla?
Phoenix pusilla prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Phoenix pusilla need?
Phoenix pusilla is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Phoenix pusilla hardy in the UK?
Phoenix pusilla has an RHS hardiness rating of H1b, meaning it needs subtropical warmth of 10–15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Phoenix pusilla?
Propagate by seed sown at 19 to 24°C in spring.
