Coconut

Coconut Overview

Cocos is a genus consisting of just 1 species of single-stemmed palm tree from tropical coastal areas. Known widely by the name Coconut Tree or Coconut Palm, this species produces edible one-seeded drupes, these are commonly known as coconuts. They are encased in thick fibrous husks, following on from 3-petalled yellow flowers arranged on a long inflorescence. Cultivation has resulted in thinner inedible hunks, more edible flesh and growth in a range of inland habitats these plants were unlikely to ever reach unaided due to their natural mechanisms of water dispersal. Commercially very valuable, this genus has been used for a huge range of functional purposes, including cosmetics, furniture, decorations and various food applications.