Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Loaded with Dates

My title today does not refer to the high school prom queen or the George Clooney’s of the world. It refers to this regal date palm that I spotted in one of the historic neighborhoods near where I live. Did you know that dates are thought to be the oldest food producing plant? The Sumerians were cultivating the date palm in 5000BC.

There are hundreds of varieties of dates all with different names and I have no idea which variety is pictured here. I did however learn that the date palm is native to the area now known as Iraq and today Iraq still produces 80% of the world’s dates. The plants like hot and dry climates but they do require water. That’s why they are romantically associated with oases. They grow in places that have some type of water source.

When I was doing my research I read a great line about date palms. “Like a duck, date palms like to have their feet in water and their heads in the sun.”

8 comments:

Kate said...

Figs and dates are delectable foods! Unusual perspective of the palm which works very well to demonstrate its height. Good job!


I have been vacationing on an island in Wisconsin with a very weak internet signal; therefore, I have not posted and commented as often as I wish, but I'll be back!!

Dave-CostaRicaDailyPhoto.com said...

vulaesThat is an interesting angle for looking at a date palm that way. You would not want to stand under a kiaded coconut palm in the same way.

Paty said...

very interesting info! and beautiful photo, nice angle and i love the green against the blue sky

Unknown said...

What a coincidence indeed, Sharon! :-) This perspective is awesome! Fantastic composition!

Jilly said...

Fascinating. First of all the photo which is great. I've tried these shots and never achieved what you have. And the commentary. Had no idea date palms needed their feet in water, but what do I know. I love palms tho. And I ADORE dates. Fresh dates are expensive here but what the hell, sometimes I buy four and indulge!

Judy said...

Fantastic shot! I love the way you composed this picture, very artistic.

glenda said...

You must have been laying down for this shot. This is a great view. I love dates did not know they have been around for such a long time.

Julie ScottsdaleDailyPhoto.com said...

great angle. love it!