While to the consumer it may seem that there are a few different types of coconuts, there is really only one coconut plant. The coconut palm is the only type of palm tree that produces coconuts. What may appear to be different types of coconuts are actually the same fruit in different stages of maturity or methods of preparation.

A coconut consists of three layers around a hollow center. The outermost layer, or husk, is green at first, but turns brown as the coconut matures. In tropical countries where the coconut palm grows, young coconuts, complete with light green husk, are sold with the top cut off and a straw inserted to make a refreshing drink. The hollow of the coconut is filled with coconut water, not to be confused with the coconut milk made from the meat of the mature fruit.

Mature coconuts are often sold with the husk completely removed. Alternatively, the husk may be cut down but not completely away. The inner part of the husk revealed by this process is whitish and usually looks whittled down. As the coconut ages, the husk softens, so it is easy for the consumer to cut away the rest of the husk from coconuts with part of the husk left. Coconuts sold this way will stay fresher longer.

In many parts of the world, coconuts are only available without the husk. These coconuts consist of only two layers - the shell and the meat - surrounding the coconut-water filled interior. The shell of the coconut is brown and hairy in appearance, with three "eyes" that can be punctured to drain the fruit.

After the coconut is drained and split open, the white meat lining the walls of the shell is revealed. This meat is much thicker and oilier in the mature coconut than in the young fruit. Fresh coconut meat can be eaten plain, grated and added to salad or dessert, or squeezed and strained to produce coconut milk for use in many tropical recipes. Dried coconut is also a popular ingredient.

In addition to the use of coconut water and meat as food, the other parts of the coconut have many applications. The husk fibers, or coir can be used as compost or stuffing or woven to make ropes and mats. The shell, when dried out, can be carved into buttons and other decorative items. Parts of the coconut can even be used to clean floors or to produce charcoal.

The coconut is such a practical plant, with so many varied uses in and out of the world of cuisine, that it may seem to the novice that there must be more than one type of coconut. It is truly amazing that a single type of fruit can be used to make such things as shirt buttons, fuel, and ropes, as well as delicious foods.