The date palm is a long-lived dioecious species and completely heterozygous in both male and female parents. It has non-branching trunk, ending in a clump of leaves.
The date palm requires a much wormer and dry summer climate. High temperatures, rainless summers, and very low humidity are particularly important for fruit setting and fruit ripening.
Deep sandy loan soil are considered the best for date palm growing, However, thy can be grown in a wide range of soil types. Maximum water holding capacity and good drainage are desirable.
The date palm has great socio-economic importance, especially in North Africa and the Middle East. It is an important commercial food crop in many Arab countries. In addition to its valuable fruit, the tree is cultivated for fuel, fiber and a s shelter for ground crops.
The trees provide a shady micro-climate which makes it possible to cultivate other cash crops such as wheat, barley, alfalfa, oats, citrus and bananas.
The rest of the tree is an important source of domestic requirements such as wood for furniture and firewood and also leaves for matting, roofing and baskets, etc.
Date palms (Phoenix dactylifera L.)
