Growing Guide: Senegal Date
Growing Tips
Plant Senegal Date Palm in full sun to part shade and provide well-draining soil. Give it plenty of room to develop its multi-trunked, spreading growth habit, which can eventually reach 20–40 ft. tall and 15–25 ft. wide. Its adaptable nature makes it suitable for a variety of landscape conditions, while consistent moisture during establishment will encourage healthy growth. In colder climates, grow it in a container or provide protection from freezing temperatures.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Phoenix reclinata |
| Common Names | Senegal Date Palm, African Wild Date Palm, Reclinata Palm |
| Family | Arecaceae |
| Origin | Tropical and Subtropical Africa, Madagascar |
| Plant Type | Fruiting Palm |
| Life Cycle | Perennial |
| Mature Size | 20–40 ft. tall, 15–25 ft. wide |
| Light Requirements | Full Sun, Part Shade |
| Soil & Moisture | Adaptable to a wide range of soils; well-draining soil preferred |
| Fruit | Small, oval, orange-brown; edible |
| Foliage | Feathery, arching fronds up to 10–15 ft. long |
| Growth Habit | Clumping, multi-trunked |
| Time to Fruit | Approximately 3–5 years from planting |
| Sex | Dioecious; male and female plants are separate |
| Pollination | A female plant requires a male plant for fruit production |
| Uses | Edible fruit, ornamental landscaping, agroforestry |
