Canary Island date palm is the grandest of palm trees locally. Pygmy date palm, Phoenix roebelenii, is of the same genus, but conversely diminutive. Only a few very old trees are more than ten feet tall. Its pinnately compound leaves are less than four feet long. Its thin leaflets are less than ten inches long. The evergreen foliage is billowy with a fine texture.

However, inner foliage is somewhat spiny. Like all date palms, pygmy date palm defends its single terminal buds. The spines are actually specialized proximal leaflets. Unlike all other date palms, mature pygmy date palms are not conducive to relocation. Fortunately, they are compact enough to remain in large pots indefinitely. Many have multiple trunks.

Pygmy date palm, with enough sunlight, is a splendid houseplant. It is also proportionate to compact atriums and enclosed patios. It is ideal for those who enjoy the aesthetics but not the scale of big palm trees. Visually, pygmy date palm resembles common date palm more than Canary Island date palm. It appreciates regular irrigation, particularly if potted.