Coconut

The coconut is the edible fruit of the coconut palm (*Cocos nucifera*), a tropical palm tree.

The coconut is the edible fruit of the coconut palm (Cocos nucifera), botanically a drupe rather than a true nut. It is widely used for its water, flesh, milk, oil, husk fibre, and shell in food and other products.

What it is

The coconut is the fruit of the coconut palm, which belongs to the palm family (Arecaceae). Botanically, it is classified as a drupe — a fruit with a hard inner layer enclosing the seed. The fruit has a fibrous husk, a hard shell, white edible flesh, and liquid endosperm known as coconut water.

Why it matters

Coconuts are a major tropical crop with diverse uses. The flesh is high in fat and can be eaten fresh, dried, or processed into coconut milk and oil. Coconut water is a popular beverage. The husk provides coir fibre, and the shell can be used for charcoal. In Canada, coconuts are commonly sold as imported produce and used in products like shredded coconut and coconut oil.

Key details

Coconut palms are native to tropical Asia and are now cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. They thrive in warm, coastal climates and are considered one of the most important crops of the tropics. The tree also provides material for other practical uses beyond food.