Cocos nucifera (species) en

Species of tropical tree having a slender, leaning, ringed trunk up to 25 m (80 feet) in height, a crown of large, featherlike leaves, and producing an edible fruit; the species probably originated somewhere in Indo-Malaya. Coconut fruits float readily and have been dispersed widely by ocean currents and by humans throughout the tropics. Marco Polo was among the first Europeans to describe coconuts. Today it is among the most important crops of the tropics. Mature fruits are drupes, not nuts: they are hard, ovoid in shape, and contain a small embryo with abundant endosperm, which comprises the edible meat and liquid that are both edible. In addition, oil derived from it is used in cooking, soaps, and cosmetics. Husks and leaves can be used as material to make shelter and furnishings.