Category:COCOS

Cocos nucifera is the only member of the genus, but what it lacks in number of species, it more than makes up for in worldwide distribution.

Cocos are found all over the world, on islands or coastlines within a few miles of the ocean. Their unique seeds float on ocean currents, which enables them to colonize any land area in a suitable climate, from single-palm islets, to continental coasts.

This is one of the most aesthetically and economically important palms in the world. Where they grow, Cocos provide shade, leaves for thatching, and coconuts for eating and drinking.

Coconuts must have temperatures that are suitably warm year-round (85 F days, 60 F nights) with plenty of humidity. However, they still thrive in places as diverse as Hawaii and the coastal Arabian peninsula.