Kerala – Coconut Palm
Common Name: Coconut Palm
Local Name: Temgu (Kannada), nariyal-ka-ped (Hindi), Thenga (Tamil/Malayalam)
Scientific Name: Cocos nucifera L.
Description:
The Coconut tree is a tall palm tree that can grow up to 30 meters in height. It has a straight, slender trunk topped with a crown of large, feathery leaves that can reach lengths of 4-6 meters. The leaves are pinnate, meaning they are divided into numerous leaflets arranged along a central axis. The Coconut tree produces large, oval-shaped fruits known as coconuts. Each fruit has a fibrous husk surrounding a hard shell, inside which is the edible coconut meat and coconut water.
Economic Importance:
Food: Coconuts are a staple food in Kerala, providing nutritious coconut meat (known as copra) and refreshing coconut water. Coconut oil extracted from copra is widely used in cooking.
Fiber: The husk of the coconut fruit yields coir, a durable fiber used in making ropes, mats, brushes, and other products.
Medicinal Uses: Various parts of the Coconut tree, including the oil and water, have medicinal properties. Coconut oil is used in traditional medicine for its antibacterial and moisturizing properties.
Cultural Significance: The Coconut tree holds cultural significance in Kerala’s rituals, festivals, and daily life. It is often associated with prosperity, purity, and auspiciousness.
Commercial Products: Apart from food and fiber, coconuts are used in the production of cosmetics, soaps, and biofuels.