Overview
Phoenix sylvestris is a bushy conservatory greenhouse in the genus Phoenix, part of the Arecaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Phoenix sylvestris 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 sylvestris (sylvestris - Latin, of the forest) also known as silver date palm, Indian date, sugar date palm or wild date palm, is a species of flowering plant in the palm family native to southern Pakistan, most of India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar and Bangladesh. It has been introduced to southeastern China, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Puerto Rico and the Leeward Islands. Growing in plains and scrubland up to 1300 m above sea level, the fruit from this palm species is used to make wine and jelly. The sap is tapped and drunk fresh or fermented into toddy. 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 sylvestris
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 sylvestris 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 sylvestris
- 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 sylvestris?
Phoenix sylvestris prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Phoenix sylvestris need?
Phoenix sylvestris 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 sylvestris hardy in the UK?
Phoenix sylvestris 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 sylvestris?
Propagate by seed sown at 19 to 24°C in spring.
