Varieties

    Variations are based on height; tall or dwarf; color of plant or fruit; size of nut; shape of nuts; thickness of husk or shell; type of inflorescence; and time required to reach maturity. Many botanical varieties and forms have been recognized and named, using some of the characteristics mentioned above.

    Two major classes of coconuts are typically recognized on the basis of stature: tall and dwarf. The ones most commonly planted for commercial purposes are the tall varieties, which are slow to mature and first flower 6-10 years after planting. They produce medium-to-large size nuts and have a life span of 80-90 years. The dwarf varieties may have originated as a mutation of tall types. The tall varieties are extensively cultivated, constituting an estimated 90% of all planted coconuts. On the other hand, the dwarf variety may grow to a height of 25-30 feet and begin flower after 3 years, being only about 3 feet tall. Their life span is only about 30-40 years. In term of yield, the dwarf is slightly more superior due to the higher planting density achievable with smaller varieties. Although highly difficult to grow, the dwarf varieties are valued because they bear early and are resistant to lethal yellowing disease.

    There are a considerable number of varieties of coconut including tall and dwarf that have resulted in worldwide distribution. Each major coconut has its own dominant tall variety: Here is a listing: Ceylon Tall, Indian Tall, Jamaica Tall, Malayan Tall, Java Tall, and Laguna (which is a widely grown tall type in the Philippines). There are also many dwarf varieties: Malayan Dwarf, Dwarf Green, and Dwarf Orange from India.

    There are also some unusual types of coconut palms in different parts of the world. The Macapuno coconut of the Philippines is famous for having no milk cavity. The jelly-like flesh fills the middle and can be eaten with a spoon. The San Ramon variety from the Philippines produces one of the largest nuts known.

Availability

Fresh coconuts are available year round, with peak supplies from September to January.

Distribution

    At the time of the discovery of the new world, coconuts were confined to limited areas on the Pacific coast of Central America, and absent from the Atlantic shores of the Americas and Africa. Coconut drifted, as far north as Norway are still capable of germination. Now, The coconut is widespread throughout the tropics, typically being found along sandy shorelines. It has been spread largely by man but also by natural means. The fruit can float for long distance and still germinate to form new trees after being washed ashore. Commercial plantings are confined to the tropical lowlands, but it will also fruit in a few warmer subtropical areas.