Contents
Description
Attalea cohune is a type of palm tree that belongs to the Arecaceae family. It is also known as the Cohune palm, American oil palm, corozo palm, or simply cohune. It is native to Central and South America, and can be found in Belize, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, and Venezuela. The plant is widely known for its edible fruit, which is used in the production of oil for cooking, soap, and candles.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Arecales |
| Family | Arecaceae |
| Genus | Attalea |
Appearance
The cohune palm can grow up to 30 meters tall and has a slender trunk with a diameter of 30-50 cm. The leaves of the plant are pinnate, measuring up to 5 meters long and 1.5 meters wide. The plant produces a large fruit that is round and brown, measuring up to 8 cm in diameter. The fruit contains a hard, woody shell that encases a white, oily meat.
Care Guide
Attalea cohune requires well-draining soil and regular watering, especially during the growing season. The plant can survive in a range of hardiness zones, from 9a to 11b. It prefers partial shade to full sun exposure. Fertilization is recommended once a year, using a slow-release fertilizer. Pruning can be done to remove dead leaves and to maintain the shape of the plant.
Common Pests & Diseases
Attalea cohune is susceptible to root rot, caused by over-watering or poor drainage. Fungal diseases such as bud rot and leaf spot can also affect the plant. Pests such as mealybugs and spider mites can infest the plant, causing damage to the leaves and fruit. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticides and fungicides can prevent and control these problems.
Habitat
The cohune palm is native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. It grows in a range of soil types, from sandy to clayey, and can be found in both wet and dry habitats. The plant is used for its fruit and oil, and is often cultivated in plantations.
Question and Answer
Q: What is Attalea cohune used for?
A: The plant is used for its edible fruit and oil, which is used in cooking, soap, and candle production.
Q: What are some common problems that affect Attalea cohune?
A: The plant is susceptible to root rot, fungal diseases, and pest infestations.
Q: What is the ideal growing environment for Attalea cohune?
A: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun exposure, well-draining soil, and regular watering.
Q: Where is Attalea cohune native to?
A: The plant is native to Central and South America, and can be found in Belize, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, and Venezuela.
Related Plants
- Attalea butyracea
- Attalea speciosa
- Attalea phalerata
- Attalea maripa
References
- “Attalea cohune.” The Plant List. www.theplantlist.org.
- “Attalea cohune.” Missouri Botanical Garden. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org.
- “Attalea cohune (Kunth) Mart.” Plants of the World Online. www.plantsoftheworldonline.org.
