The Date Palm Tree, botanical name Phoenix dactylifera, is one of the most recognizable palm trees on this planet mostly as a result of its majestic appearance and yummy fruits. It is also known as Medjool palm.
After being imported from Morocco to the United States in 1927, Phoenix dactylifera became very popular in tropical and subtropical areas. This palm is not cheap but is well worth the money.
A lot of luxurious resorts and expensive mansions, especially in Florida, have this palm planted at the entrances or new the pools. You’ll be probably surprised to find out that this tree was mentioned in the bible. This stunning palm was also on the walls of the Egyptian tombs.
One of the reasons this palm is loved by gardeners is because it is very tough and can tolerate various of conditions like cold, drought, wind and salt. During hot months with little water, its long roots extend deep down searching for water. Poor soil is also not a problem but of course to it grows best in full sun and moist soil.
Slowly growing this palm can live up to 200 years reaching 200ft. Thick grey trunk is topped with feathery fronds that spread up to 30ft wide.
To get the diamond pattern on the trunk, you need to cut the old fronds. It is not a lot of work. Be careful, the fronds have sharp thorns near the bottom of the stem. I would recommend wearing gloves when pruning. White and cream flowers are born in spring and grow in clusters on 4ft long stems.
Flowers emerge from golden-brown pods, with each pod containing anywhere from 5,000 to 10,000 blooms. Male and female flowers grow on different plants, the pollination happens by wind. In cultivation to ensure the development of fruit, gardeners collect the male pods, dry them and than pollinate female flowers.
Fruits are green at first but then turn orange as they ripe. They are about 2 inches long containing single see inside.
Dates can be used in many dishes or eaten raw. They are absolutely delicious and great for your health. They are full of vitamins and minerals that will strengthen your immune system.
Dates have been used in medicine for many years to treat different diseases. It is known to help with treating anaemia, constipation, diarrhea and diseases of gentio-urinary system.
Phoenix dactylifera can be used for many purposes like food, medicine, shelter, fuel, and building materials.The amazing thing is that every part of this palm can be used for something.
You can propagate this palm by offsets or seeds that will sprout after 2-3 months.
Generally healthy palm, it can get into trouble with leaf spot, lethal yellowing disease, black scorch, and root rot. Prevent these diseases by using appropriate treatment. If nothing helps, consult an expert.
Palms like Date Palm Tree will bring a tropical paradise and luxurious feeling to your garden. Date Palm Tree is not only beautiful, but also very durable and low maintenance. To find out more, read my palm tree care article.