This evergreen plant is a member of the palm family (Palmaceae). It belongs to the genus Phoeniceae.
The size of an average canary date palm tree is truly remarkable. It can grow to 60 ft (18 m), with a trunk width of 3 ft (1 m). The straight, unbranched stem is pretty sturdy. Many stumps, the remains of dead and fallen leaves, can be found on its surface. The flowers are divided into female (yellow-orange) and male (creamy). They are collected in large branched inflorescences. Invasive in southern California, northern New Zealand, in riverine wetland, and coastal habitats.