A Robusta Sylvester palm is a Phoenix sylvestris palm grown in the field on our Vero Beach farm. The farm describes the Robusta as having a larger trunk caliper, more silver in the fronds, and a fuller head than a standard sylvestris. This guide explains what those traits mean and how to choose one for your site.
Also called the silver date palm
The Sylvester palm goes by several names. You may hear it called the Sylvester palm, the India date palm, or the silver date palm. The botanical name is Phoenix sylvestris Robusta. Use that name when you buy, so you know exactly what you are getting.
What makes the Robusta different
Caliper is the thickness of the trunk, measured at a set height above the ground. The farm describes the Robusta as having a larger caliper than a standard sylvestris. A thicker trunk often reads as a bigger, more finished palm in a landscape. The Robusta also shows more silver in its fronds and a fuller crown. Those traits suit entries, driveways, and focal points.
How our palms are graded
Our palms are graded as specimen and Florida Fancy. Ask us to explain the difference between the grades for the palm you are considering. Look at the palm in person when you can. A photo can miss details in color, shape, and trunk.
Size: overall height and clear trunk
Palm sizes can be confusing. Overall height includes the fronds. Clear trunk is the bare trunk below the fronds. Our palms run from 7 feet of overall height up to 9 feet of clear trunk. Some specimens are over 20 feet overall. When you compare palms, ask for both measurements, not just one.
Matching the palm to your site
Before you choose, measure the space. Look at overhead wires, the house, and how the sun moves across the yard. Think about what the palm will look like at maturity, not just the day it arrives. A good match gives the palm room to grow and keeps it clear of walkways and vehicles.
Visit the farm and pick your palm
Customers can visit the farm, walk the rows, and pick the exact palm. Seeing the palms in person helps you compare size, color, and shape. Call ahead before you come. Owner Jerry meets customers in the field, so you can ask questions as you walk. Bring a photo or the measurements of your site.
Delivery from the farm
Delivery is available for every order. The crew root-wraps the palm in the field. They load it with a loader onto a trailer or flatbed, then deliver it to your site. The delivery price is not published, so call 772-778-3006 with the planting address for a quote.
Before the palm arrives
Prepare the site before delivery day. Clear the path for the trailer or flatbed. Mark the planting spot, and check for buried lines. Have your soil and gravel mix ready. Plan to plant as soon as possible after delivery, because the sooner the palm goes in the ground, the better.
If planting must wait
Sometimes planting has to wait a day or two. Keep the root wrap on the palm. Store it in a shady, well-ventilated spot until you can plant. Do not leave it in direct sun or in a closed space.
How to plant a Robusta Sylvester palm
- Dig the hole about twice as wide as the root ball.
- Dig only as deep as the palm was grown. Do not dig deeper.
- Never bury the trunk.
- Backfill with a soil and gravel mix, and pack out air pockets as you go.
- Build a soil dam around the planting hole to hold water.
- Soak the palm fully after planting.
Water the new palm
After planting, water daily or every other day for the first two weeks. Keep the root area moist, not soggy. Water needs change with rain and heat, so watch the palm and adjust. Check the soil with your finger before each watering. Consistent care in the first weeks helps the palm settle in.
Feeding the palm
Fertilize in spring, summer, and early fall. Use a slow-release fertilizer that contains manganese, magnesium, potassium, iron, and copper sulfates. Follow the label directions. Too much fertilizer can cause problems, so do not overdo it.
Low maintenance once established
The farm describes the Sylvester palm as cold-hardy, disease and pest resistant, wind tolerant, and low maintenance once established. Established means the palm has grown roots into the site. Until then, watering and careful planting matter most. Ask us to walk you through the plan before you plant.
Working with Sylvestris Tree Farms
Sylvestris Tree Farms grows field-grown Sylvester date palms in Vero Beach, FL, not in containers. We serve Vero Beach and Indian River County, and we offer planting and first-year care guidance. Learn more about our date palm options, or read about the farm and our team on the about page.
Next steps
Decide on the palm size, check your site, and plan the delivery. Then plant soon after delivery, water well, and feed on schedule. A good start gives the palm the best chance to settle in and thrive.
Ready to choose your palm? Visit the farm in Vero Beach, or call Sylvestris Tree Farms at 772-778-3006 with your planting address for a quote. Call ahead before you visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Robusta Sylvester palm the same as a standard sylvestris?
The farm describes the Robusta as having a larger trunk caliper, more silver in the fronds, and a fuller head. Ask us to show you palms side by side so you can compare.
What is the difference between overall height and clear trunk?
Overall height includes the fronds. Clear trunk is the bare trunk below them. Ask for both numbers when you compare palms.
Can I pick my own palm?
Yes. Customers can visit the farm, walk the rows, and pick the exact palm. Call ahead before you visit.
How do I get a delivery quote?
Delivery is available for every order, but the price is not published. Call 772-778-3006 with the planting address for a quote.