Wild Date Plum, India Date Palm

Phoenix sylvestris

Physical Characteristics

Phoenix sylvestris is a TREE growing to 15 m (49ft 3in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - Himalayas from western India to Nepal and Myanmar.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge;

Edible Uses

Fruit. Of a very inferior character[2]. Sap - it can be concentrated into a syrup or fermented into alcohol[2]. One of the main sources of sugar in Bengal[2]. The sap is obtained from the unopened inflorescence[171]. The tip of this is cut off and the sap then flows from this cut. The flow can be up to 5 litres a day for several months, it contains about 14% sugar[171]. See also [1].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known