Date Palm

Phoenix dactylifera

Physical Characteristics

Phoenix dactylifera is an evergreen Tree growing to 25 m (82ft) by 7 m (23ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. The plant is not self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline and saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

Original range is unknown.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Fruit Pollen Sap Edible Uses: Drink Sweetener Fruit - raw or cooked[297 ]. The fruit is often dried and then eaten raw or used to add sweetness to a variety of foods such as cakes, fruit pies, confectionary etc[301 , K ]. The fruit is about 5cm long, 2.5cm in diameter, produced in clusters that can be as large as 1,500 fruits[335 ]. Male inflorescence - eaten as a delicacy[301 ]. Pollen is eaten[301 ]. Wherever fruiting is poor, the sap is tapped and becomes the main product from the tree[303 ]. It can be drunk fresh, fermented and drunk as toddy, or distilled and drunk as the spirit 'arrack'[303 ].

Medicinal Uses

Demulcent Expectorant Febrifuge Laxative Date fruits are demulcent, expectorant and laxative. They are used to treat respiratory diseases and fevers[303 ]. The tree yields a gum that is used in treating diarrhoea[303 ].

Known Hazards

Plant has spines or sharp edges; use extreme caution when handling