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An Introduction to Palm Trees
A palm tree symbolizes life and its
continuance, as well as joy and happiness.
The palm family of trees has approximately
202 genera and 2,600 species. The palms are native to
tropical and subtropical climates, and commonly known palms
are date, coconut, and areca nut. Known to have existed
around 80 million years ago, palms are among the oldest
varieties of flowering plants.
The trunks of the palm have been used since
ancient times to build catamarans or special boats. Dates
are harvested from palms. Palms produce coir ropes, mats,
and bags, and palm oil is extracted from palms, along with
palm wine.
As with all other things, many species of
palm are facing extinction and are under threat from
urbanization, natural disasters, hybridization, and a lack
of knowledge amongst common folk. Destruction of natural
habitats, forest clearing operations, mining, clearing of
mangroves, and dumping of trash are all detrimental to the
survival of palms. Like other plants, palms are also prone
to destruction by nature and disease.
Ornamental palms are a luxury and can cost
from fifty to several hundred dollars.
Today the palm, the “Prince among trees,”
needs care and attention. Otherwise, a tree that has lasted
centuries will not remain for centuries to come.
Coconut Palm - The national tree of the Maldives
In all the islands of Maldives you choose to visit,
you will find a dense growth of Dhivehi Ruh, or coconut palm. It is the
national tree of the country and throughout history has played an
important role in its economy.
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Botanically known as Cocos nucifera, the coconut palm belongs to the
Palmae (Arecaceae) family and is said to represent the livelihood of the
nation. Traditionally it has proven to make the biggest contribution to
the everyday life of the people. It plays a prominent role on both land
and water—essential factors in the lifestyle of this tiny islands nation.
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Coconut production is the country’s major form of agriculture.
Historically, coconuts and coconut products have been an essential part of
the Maldivian diet. Tender young coconuts are known as “karumba,” and
traditionally when visitors first arrive on an island, they are offered
one to quench their thirst on its sweet milk—even before introductions are
made. “Toddy” is a drink that is popular on special occasions and is made
from tapping the sap of certain coconut trees that do not produce
coconuts. Honey is also made from coconuts, as is a type of vinegar, which
takes about forty days. Oil from the coconut is used in cooking and as a
hair oil.
And of course, the white meat of the coconut is well known throughout
much of the world. In the Maldives it is commonly eaten by itself or
combined with other ingredients. When mixed with smoked dried tuna, chili,
onions, lime and salt, and eaten with a flat pancake bread known as roshi,
it becomes “Maldivian fish”—one of the most popular dishes in the country
and a popular export item as well. Hollowed-our shells attached to the end
of a long stick can be used as cooking utensils, or they can be dried and
used as firewood for cooking, which imparts a slight coconut taste to the
food. Dried palm branches that have fallen off trees during the natural
process of growth are used as firewood as well.
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