Lodoicea Maldivica
Contents
Description
Lodoicea Maldivica, also known as the Coco de Mer or the giant coconut, is a species of palm tree endemic to the Seychelles islands in the Indian Ocean. It is considered one of the most iconic and fascinating plants in the world due to its enormous size, unique shape, and cultural significance.The Coco de Mer can reach up to 30 meters in height and has a massive fruit that can weigh up to 30 kilograms, making it the largest seed in the plant kingdom. The fruit has two lobes that resemble a female pelvis and is considered a symbol of fertility and sensuality.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Arecales |
| Family | Arecaceae |
| Genus | Lodoicea |
Appearance
The Coco de Mer has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other palm trees. It has a large trunk that can reach up to 2 meters in diameter and is covered with rough bark. The leaves are fan-shaped, can grow up to 10 meters long, and are divided into many segments.The most distinctive feature of the Coco de Mer is its fruit. The fruit has a hard, woody shell that protects the two lobes inside. The lobes are oval-shaped and can reach up to 50 centimeters in length. They have a smooth, shiny surface and are often used for decorative purposes.
Care Guide
The Coco de Mer is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures and high humidity to thrive. It can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 10-12 or indoors in a greenhouse.Water: The Coco de Mer requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. It is important to avoid letting the soil dry out completely.Fertilization: The Coco de Mer benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. It is recommended to fertilize every 2-3 months during the growing season.Soil: The Coco de Mer prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, sand, and perlite is ideal.Sunlight: The Coco de Mer prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It should be protected from direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day.Hardiness Zones: The Coco de Mer can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Coco de Mer is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Diseases that can affect the Coco de Mer include fungal leaf spot and root rot. These can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation, avoiding overwatering, and using well-draining soil.
Habitat
The Coco de Mer is native to the Seychelles islands in the Indian Ocean, where it grows in the wild on the islands of Praslin and Curieuse. It prefers to grow in coastal areas and is often found in sandy soils.The Coco de Mer has a unique relationship with the Seychelles ecosystem, as it is a keystone species that provides habitat and food for many other plants and animals. It is also highly valued by the local population for its cultural and economic significance.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Coco de Mer edible?
A: The Coco de Mer is technically edible, but it is not commonly consumed due to its high price and rarity. The fruit is also protected by law, and it is illegal to export it from the Seychelles without a permit.
Q: How long does it take for a Coco de Mer to produce fruit?
A: The Coco de Mer is a slow-growing plant that can take up to 25 years to produce its first fruit. After that, it can produce fruit annually for up to 100 years.
Q: Why is the Coco de Mer so expensive?
A: The Coco de Mer is considered one of the rarest and most valuable plants in the world due to its unique appearance and cultural significance. It is also protected by law, which limits its availability and drives up its price.
Q: Can the Coco de Mer be grown outside of the Seychelles?
A: The Coco de Mer can be grown in other tropical regions, but it requires specific growing conditions and is difficult to cultivate. It is also protected by law, which limits its availability for cultivation.
Related Plants
- Cocos Nucifera (Coconut Palm)
- Attalea Cohune (Cohune Palm)
- Borassus Flabellifer (Palmyra Palm)
- Phoenix Dactylifera (Date Palm)
References
- “Lodoicea maldivica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 13, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org.
- “Coco de Mer.” Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Accessed June 13, 2021. http://www.kew.org.
- “The Seychelles Islands Foundation.” Coco de Mer. Accessed June 13, 2021. http://www.seychellesislandsfoundation.org.
- “Coco de Mer: The Iconic Giant Coconut of the Seychelles.” The Plant Lore. Accessed June 13, 2021. http://www.theplantlore.com.
