About the species
Cocos nucifera – Coconut palm
Cocos nucifera, commonly known as the coconut palm, is a tropical plant that belongs to the family Arecaceae. This monocotyledonous species is renowned for its versatile and economically significant attributes. With a distinctive tall, slender trunk and large, feather-like pinnate leaves, the coconut palm can reach heights of up to 30 meters and thrives in warm coastal regions with sandy soils and abundant sunlight.
The plant produces large, ovoid fruits known as coconuts, each containing a single seed or drupe. Coconut water, derived from the liquid endosperm, is a refreshing and nutrient-rich drink, while the white fleshy endosperm (coconut meat) provides a valuable source of dietary fats and energy. The fibrous husk surrounding the seed, called coir, is widely used in agriculture, textiles, and industry.
Beyond its economic value, Cocos nucifera plays an important ecological role in tropical ecosystems, stabilizing coastlines and providing habitat, shade, and food for a wide range of organisms. Its adaptability, combined with its cultural and socio-economic relevance, makes the coconut palm a key species in many tropical communities worldwide.