Family: Arecaceae
Origin, Description & Uses
Lodoicea maldivica, commonly known as coco de mer, is a distinctive palm native to the Seychelles islands of Praslin and Curieuse in the Indian Ocean. It is best known for producing the largest seed in the plant kingdom, which can weigh up to 20 kilograms (44 pounds). This slow-growing, long-lived palm forms tall, unbranched trunks with large, fan-shaped leaves and is dioecious, meaning individual trees are either male or female. In its native range, it is highly valued for its unique seeds, which are used for cultural artifacts, tourism trade, and ornamental purposes, though wild populations are strictly protected due to its rarity and ecological importance.
Risks & Threats
In Hawaiʻi, coco de mer is considered low risk because it is not known to be naturalized and has limited potential for spread outside of cultivation. Its very slow growth rate, specialized reproductive requirements, and large, heavy seeds reduce its ability to disperse and establish in wild ecosystems. While it may be grown as an ornamental curiosity in suitable tropical settings, there is little evidence that it would become invasive or form self-sustaining populations in Hawaiian ecosystems. Overall, its ecological threat is minimal, but continued caution is appropriate when introducing any non-native palm species to ensure it does not become established in sensitive habitats.
High Risk Traits:
- Thrives in tropical climates
- Shade-tolerant
- Tolerates many soil types
- Capable of forming dense stands (at least formerly in native range)
- Seeds dispersed intentionally by people
Low Risk Traits:
- No reports of invasiveness or naturalization
- Unarmed (no spines, thorns or burrs)
- Non-toxic
- Ornamental
- Dioecious
- Not reported to spread vegetatively
- Very slow growth rate. Reaches maturity after 25+ years
- Large fruit and seeds severely limit dispersal ability
