A cluster of coconut palms is a common sight on the shores of warm seas. The seeds of these palms are called coconuts. Coconuts are among the biggest seeds in the world.
A coconut has a thick husk around it when it comes from the tree. Fibers from this husk can be used in making coarse cloth and rope. They can also be used in weaving such things as hats and baskets and mats.
But the seed inside the husk is much more important. The seed has thick walls of white "meat." The coconut we eat in candy, cakes, and pies is made by cutting this meat into shreds. The meat has much oil in it. Some of the meat, instead of being eaten, is used to furnish coconut oil. This oil may be used for cooking. Much of it finds its way into margarine, soap, and face cream. The center of the coconut is filled with a clear liquid called coconut milk or coconut water. It is good to drink fresh from the coconut. Many recipes for cooking other foods call for coconut milk.
It is not easy for anyone except a monkey to gather coconuts from coconut palms. These palms may be as tall as a ten-story building. And there are no branches to catch hold of.
Even if they did not bear coconuts, coconut palms would be worth having. Their huge leaves are useful in making thatched roofs for homes. Their trunks can be used in building. In fact, every part of the coco-nut palm has some value.
