Senegal Date Palm

Phoenix reclinata

Physical Characteristics

Phoenix reclinata is an evergreen Tree growing to 6 m (19ft) by 4 m (13ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is frost tender. It is in leaf all year. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required).. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

S. Africa.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; South Wall. By. West Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Coffee Fruit - raw or cooked[2]. Much relished by the local peoples, they can also be used to make a wine[2]. The roasted seed is used as a coffee substitute[2].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known