Silver Date Palm

Phoenix sylvestris

Blue-Green Feathery Fronds
Spiny Leaf Stalks
Large Feather Palm

Pet & Human Safety

People: Not researchedPets: Not on the ASPCA lists as we read them

People: not researched yet.

Toxic to pets

No ASPCA entry found.

Genuinely unassessed by ASPCA, not cleared. Separate from chemical toxicity: the spiny leaflet bases near the frond stem are a real physical/mechanical hazard, common across Phoenix date palms, disclosed here as distinct from the pet-toxicity verdict. For context, ASPCA generally (not universally) rates true palms non-toxic, though that pattern isn't extended here as a substitute for a species-specific verdict.

PlotAndPetal cannot tell you whether a plant you found can be eaten. Only someone who can see the plant can identify it.

Poison control

If someone has collapsed, cannot be woken, is having a seizure or has trouble breathing, call 911 now. For any other possible poisoning, call Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222.

Emergency number source: U.S. federal law (47 U.S.C. § 251(e)(3)), read 2026-10-07.

Naturalist Lore

Historical Background & Breeding Lore

The history of this plant and its name, and how it was bred, where we have them.

Get the app: coming soon

Care

Hardiness zones: UF/IFAS FR308 does not give a USDA zone. It says the palm does well where temperatures stay above 15 F.
Mature size: UF/IFAS FR308 says it grows slowly but can reach about 50 feet. No university or extension source used gives a trunk diameter.
Family: Arecaceae (true palm family)

Soil & Drainage

Pruning & Flush Rhythm

Feeding Schedule

How to prepare the soil, when and what to feed, and how and when to prune where that applies.

Get the app: coming soon