Phoenix (plant) thin layer of fruit pulp. The central soft part of the stem of "P. rupicola, P. acaulis," and "P. humilis" is a rich source of starch. Palms are felled to extract this central ‘pith’ which is dried, powdered, stored and used for preparation of bread by Indian natives. The "P. canariensis" sap is cooked to a sweet, thick syrup. "P. sylvestris" Roxb. is widely used in India as a source of sugar. The sugary sap from some African palms yields country liquor on fermentation (palm wine). While "P. dactylifera" is grown for its edible dates, the Canary Island date palm
Niebla dactylifera species that further differs by a more regularly branched thallus, one that is also broader at the base than above the base. Black dot-like pycnidia are infrequent and inconspicuous at tips of the ultimate branches. The key lichen substances is sekikaic acid, with accessory triterpenes. Pigmentation is weak near base of thallus, the cortex appearing brownish with blackish areas. "Niebla dactylifera" was recognized as a result of undertaking a taxonomic revision of the genus in regard towards development of a lichen flora of Baja California, beginning in 1986. A peer review of the manuscript in 1990 suggested that additional herbarium