Genus of 17 species of single- and cluster-stemmed palms from tropical and subtropical forest or low scrub thiskets in the Canary Islands, Africa, Crete (Greece), and W. and S. Asia to Philippines. This palm is widely grown as an ornamental tree. It is tolerant of cold and drought and can be easily raised from seeds if given heat. Outside, it will grow up to 60 ft. with a 3 ft. diameter trunk. Inside, its growth can be regulated by the size of container it is raised in. It has a distinctive spiky, architectural appearance that is a must for any home. It bears 2 in. long fruit that is orange when ripe. The old leaf scars on the trunk form diamond shaped patterns.