Coconut Palm Tree (Cocos nucifera)
The Coconut Palm (Cocos nucifera) is a hallmark of tropical regions, famed for its towering, slender trunk that reaches up to 100 feet. Known as the "Tree of Life," its smooth trunk is topped with a crown of 20 to 30 large, feather-like green leaves, each up to 20 feet long.
This palm is dioecious, producing small, yellow male flowers and larger, clustered female flowers. It yields the well-known coconut, a large drupe that can weigh over 4.4 lbs. The coconut has a thick husk and a hard shell enclosing edible white flesh and refreshing water.
Thriving in sandy soils and tolerant of salinity, the Coconut Palm is cultivated worldwide for its versatile products, including coconut oil from the flesh and coir from the husk. It's valued not only for its economic importance but also for its role in coastal ecosystems, providing wildlife habitat and erosion protection.
Growing a coconut is effortless in any subtropical-tropical climate where it’s humid, hot, and sunny. Cocos nucifera needs little in the way of care. Just like the laziest of beach bums, a coconut palm simply wants for long days in the sun.
Plant Type
Tropical/Subtropical Evergreen Fruit Tree
Harvest Season
Flowers bloom year-round in tropical climates. Fruit may take up to 12 months to fully mature.
Mature Size
Coconut trees can grow up to 50-100 ft.
Soil & Moisture
Adaptable; Prefers well-drained, balanced soil rich in organic matter. Does great in sandy soil!
Light Requirements
Full Sun
Self-Fertile
Yes
Growth Rate
Medium
Zone Hardiness
Outdoors 9-11; Patio/Greenhouse 4+
Requires frost protection until well-established
Propagation
Plant Type:
Tropical / Subtropical Evergreen Fruit Tree
Harvest Season:
Depends on Variety
Mature Size:
Up to 2-90 ft, depending on variety
Soil & Moisture:
Well-draining, acid rich, organic soil. Regular watering and humidity.
Light Requirements:
Full Sun, Part Shade
Self-Fertile:
No
Growth Rate:
Medium to Fast
Zone Hardiness:
Outdoors 9-11 with frost protection; Patio/Greenhouse 4+
Propagation:
Our Açaí Palm is grown from seed, capable of producing fruit within 3-5 years, or when it reaches 8-10 ft tall.
Wondering about your USDA Growing Zone and what you can grow? 🌎🌿 Learn how to find your Zone and grow tropical plants anywhere—Florida to Alaska! 👉 Read the full blog here!
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