Dates come from the date palm tree (Phoenix dactylifera), which is believed to have originated in the Fertile Crescent region between Egypt and Mesopotamia. These trees have been cultivated for thousands of years, with archaeological evidence showing date cultivation in the Middle East and the Indus Valley dating back to at least 7000 BCE. Dates thrive in hot, dry, and sunny climates, making the Middle East, North Africa, and parts of the southwestern United States ideal growing regions. The fruit grows in clusters under the palm fronds and ripens in about six to seven months, harvested typically from September through December.