What Is the Largest Seed?

The largest seed comes from a type of palm tree known as the coco-de-mer, or Locoicea maldivica. Native to the Seychelles Islands of Praslin, the nut or seed can weigh as much as 39 pounds (17.6 kilograms). The coco-de-mer is known by a several other names, including the Maldive coconut, coco fesse and the Seychelles Island palm.

More facts about seeds:

  • Seeds are used not only for growing new plants, they also are consumed as snacks or used to manufacture oils, flours, alcohol and other edible foods. Sunflower and pumpkin seeds are two popular examples.

  • Sunflowers also help control weed infestations. This is because the sunflower plant produces a natural toxin through the root system, helping to prevent the seeds of weeds from germinating.

  • Seed plants are divided into two categories. Gymnosperms are plants that produce naked seeds, or seeds that are not enclosed in some type of protective structure. Angiosperms are plants that produce seeds that are enclosed in some sort of structure. Spruce trees are examples of gymnosperms, and apple trees are examples of angiosperms.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the largest seed in the world?

The largest seed in the world comes from the Seychelles nut palm, also known as the coco de mer or Lodoicea maldivica. This remarkable seed can weigh up to 25 kilograms (55 pounds) and measure up to 30 centimeters (12 inches) in diameter, making it not only the largest but also one of the heaviest seeds on Earth.

Where can you find the coco de mer palm?

The coco de mer palm is native to the Seychelles, a group of islands in the Indian Ocean. It grows in the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve on the island of Praslin and a few other nearby islands. This palm is a protected species due to its rarity and the unique ecosystem it inhabits.

How long does it take for a coco de mer seed to germinate?

Germination of the coco de mer seed is a slow process. It can take several years for the seed to sprout, with some reports suggesting a range from 6 to 10 years. The seed's growth into a mature palm is equally slow, contributing to the plant's rarity and conservation status.

Why is the coco de mer seed so large?

The coco de mer's large seed size is an evolutionary adaptation that remains somewhat of a mystery. Some theories suggest that the seed's size could have evolved to provide ample energy reserves for the seedling in the nutrient-poor soil of its native habitat, while others propose that it may have once been dispersed by large, now-extinct animals.

Are coco de mer seeds used for anything by humans?

Historically, coco de mer seeds have been valued as collectibles and for their supposed medicinal properties. They are also used in traditional crafts and as decorative objects. However, due to strict regulations to prevent overharvesting and ensure the species' survival, trade and export of the seeds are highly controlled.

What conservation efforts are in place for the coco de mer?

Conservation efforts for the coco de mer include strict legal protection of its habitat and the palms themselves. The Seychelles government has implemented measures to regulate the collection and sale of the seeds. Additionally, the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve, where many coco de mer palms grow, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, providing further conservation attention and resources.

More Info: http://plants.usda.gov

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