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coconut palm
Scientific Name: Cocos
Family: Arecaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Coconut Palm (Cocos nucifera)
The coconut palm, scientifically known as Cocos nucifera, is a widely recognized and economically important tree of the tropics.
Considerations for Pets
- Adult plants have edible apical buds, known as "palm cabbage" or "heart of palm".
- The plant may be found in resorts and gardens.
Considerations for Children
- Adult plants have edible apical buds, known as "palm cabbage" or "heart of palm".
- The plant may be found in resorts and gardens.
Common Names
- Coconut Palm
- Coco Palm
- Coconut Tree
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Cocos nucifera L. (Linn.)
- Family: Arecaceae (Palm family)
- Subfamily: Cocoideae
- Cocos nucifera is the sole species of the genus Cocos.
Distribution and Habitat
- The coconut palm is native to tropical eastern regions.
- It is strongly associated with tropical landscapes.
- It is one of the most important crops of the tropics.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- It is a large palm, growing up to 30 meters tall (approximately 98 feet).
- The leaves are pinnate (feather-like) and can reach lengths of 4 to 6 meters (13 to 20 feet).
- Young coconut palms grow rapidly, producing multiple leaves before developing a trunk.
- Mature trees can be tall, erect, or gently curved and reach a height of 60-80 feet.
Quirky Facts
- The scientific name Cocos comes from the Portuguese word for "monkey," referring to the appearance of the coconut.
- In India's Goa state, authorities have debated whether to classify the coconut palm as a tree.
- The coconut we buy in the store does not resemble the coconut you find growing on a coconut palm.