In Phoenix species, when less than one-third (and usually less than one-quarter) of the oldest leaves have discolored and become necrotic, the spear leaf dies (Figures 2, 6 and 7). Death of the spear leaf indicates the apical meristem (bud or heart) has died. Once the apical meristem has died, no new leaves will develop, and the remaining leaves will continue to discolor from the oldest to the youngest leaves. In cabbage palms, approximately two-thirds of the oldest leaves will have discolored before the spear leaf dies