Synonyms: Amir Haj, Mirhage
Origin: Iraq
Meaning: “Leader of the Pilgrimage”
History: A soft date and long reputed to be one of the best dates in northern Iraq. (Fairchild 1903; Popenoe 1913),  Amir Hajj originated at Mandali Oasis, which is said to be the source of more good date varieties that any other locality in Iraq. Commonly referred to as “the visitor’s date,” it is generally presented to guests and much of the crop was exported as gifts from the people of Mandali to their friends.  Nixon introduced Amir Hajj in 1929 and most of the offshoots were planted in the lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas.  Later plantings were made at Indio, California.