Balanites aegyptiaca, commonly known as desert date, is a deciduous tree native to arid and semi-arid regions, including savannas, deserts, and pre-Saharan steppes across Africa and extending into parts of the Middle East. It typically grows up to 33 feet (10 meters) tall and is characterized by its long, straight spines and dark green, pinnate leaves. The tree bears small, fragrant, greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in spring, followed by oval, yellow fruits that are edible but have a bitter taste. These fruits are highly valued in times of scarcity and are also used for medicinal purposes.

Desert date is drought-tolerant and can thrive in poor soils, making it suitable for xeriscaping and reforestation projects in arid environments. It is often used as a living fence due to its spiny nature and can provide valuable shade and windbreaks in hot, dry regions. In cultivation, it requires minimal water once established and prefers full sun exposure. However, its potential invasiveness should be considered before planting outside its native range, as it can outcompete local flora.CC BY-SA 4.0