Reprinted from Kew Bulletin vol. 56, part 1, 2001. The

desert date (Balanites aegyptiaca) has been used in

Egypt for over 4,000 years as a valuable source of oil

and medicines. Nine species and 11 infraspecific taxa

are described plus one subspecies and two varieties

for the first time. 15 full page line illustrations and 10

distribution maps.