Palm Care Guide

California Fan Palm

Washingtonia filifera · Palms

This palm, native to desert oases, is extremely tolerant of full sun, heat and drought, which makes it ideal for Izmir's climate. It is also called 'hairy' because of the thread-like fibers on its young leaves. If the dead leaves are not pruned, they form a 'skirt' around the trunk.

Canary Island Date Palm

Phoenix canariensis · Palms

A large, evergreen palm that creates a monumental effect in the landscape with its majestic, symmetrical form. It loves full sun and well-drained soils; it is quite drought tolerant. It is susceptible to dangerous pests and diseases such as the red palm weevil (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus) and Phytophthora.

Chinese Windmill Palm

Trachycarpus fortunei · Palms

One of the most cold-hardy palms, adapting very well to Izmir's climate. It prefers full sun or light shade and well-drained soil. It is known for the fibrous material covering its trunk and its large fan-shaped leaves.

Cretan Date Palm

Phoenix theophrasti · Palms

A silvery-green-leaved, multi-stemmed (suckering) palm endemic to Turkey's southwestern coasts. It is extremely tolerant of drought, salt and poor soil. It is ideal for xeriscapes and natural gardens; it may be more resistant to the Red Palm Weevil than other Phoenix species.

Date Palm

Phoenix dactylifera · Palms

One of the key trees of hot, dry climates, grown for its edible, sweet fruit (dates). For fruit production it needs plenty of sun and high summer temperatures. Because female and male trees are separate, pollination is required for commercial production; it is susceptible to the Red Palm Weevil.

Jelly Palm

Butia capitata · Palms

A slow-growing palm with arching gray-blue leaves, one of the most cold-hardy palms. It produces orange edible fruits; it is drought tolerant.

Mediterranean Fan Palm

Chamaerops humilis · Palms

The only palm species native to the Mediterranean; extremely tolerant of heat, drought, wind and calcareous soils. With its slow-growing, multi-stemmed (shrub-like) habit it is excellent for dry gardens and pots; once established it needs very little care.

Sago Palm

Cycas revoluta · Palms

A very slow-growing, long-lived prehistoric plant resembling a palm. It needs little water; the new crown of leaves opens once a year and should not be rotated during that time.

Weddell Palm

Syagrus weddelliana (syn. Microcoelum weddellianum) · Palms

A slow-growing, delicate dwarf palm known for its graceful, fine leaves. It likes bright but not direct (indirect) light, high humidity and a very well-drained potting soil. It is very sensitive to watering mistakes and root rot.