Description
Phoenix sylvestris, commonly known as the silver date palm or sugar date palm, is a robust palm tree that grows up to 12–15 meters (40–50 feet) tall. It features a sturdy, grayish-orange trunk with a rough texture due to the leaf bases. Its crown is composed of pinnate fronds that are 3–4 meters (10–13 feet) long, with silvery-green leaflets that give the tree its distinctive color. The palm produces small, yellowish flowers in large clusters, followed by oval-shaped fruits that are orange when ripe.
Native to the Indian subcontinent, this palm thrives in a variety of soils, including sandy and saline types, and is well-suited to arid and semi-arid regions. It is highly drought-resistant and moderately wind-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for landscaping in challenging climates. The Phoenix sylvestris can withstand temperatures as low as -9°C (16°F), though prolonged frost may cause damage.