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Parajubaea cocoides, Mountain Coconut, Coco Cumbé - 2 x seeds fresh seeds
Parajubaea cocoides, Mountain Coconut, Coco Cumbé - 2 x seeds fresh seeds
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Parajubaea cocoides
commonly known as the Mountain Coconut or Coco Cumbé, is a species of flowering plant in the Arecaceae family. It's native to South America, particularly in the Andean mountain range. Unlike the common coconut (Cocos nucifera), the Mountain Coconut isn't a tropical palm but is adapted to cooler, mountainous terrains.
This much talked about palm native to the high, dry, central valleys of the Andes in Colombia, Ecuador and northern Peru is erratic to germinate; it does best if seeds are dried for several months before sowing and then placed on the soil surface, not buried more than halfway. Once sprouted, it is fast growing, very adaptable, and resembles nothing so much as a coconut palm, or a huge Lytocaryum weddellianum
Here's what you might want to know about this plant:
1. **Appearance**: Parajubaea cocoides is a large palm, reaching heights of up to 20 meters or more. It has a thick, gray trunk and large, pinnate (feather-like) leaves that can reach several meters in length. The palms produce large clusters of small, round fruits that resemble coconuts, though they are smaller in size.
2. **Habitat**: This palm thrives in high-altitude regions, often found at elevations between 1,400 and 2,400 meters. It prefers temperate climates rather than the tropical environments that many other palm trees require.
3. **Cultivation**: Growing a Parajubaea cocoides can be a rewarding challenge for enthusiasts. It requires a well-draining soil, as it's accustomed to mountainous regions where water doesn't collect at the roots. While it's resistant to cooler temperatures, it still requires a good amount of sunlight. It's also a slow grower, so patience is essential.
4. **Uses**: The fruits of the Mountain Coconut are edible, with a sweet taste and a texture that can be likened to a coconut. The palm's sap can be made into a sweet syrup, and the wood of the tree is sometimes used in construction. The seeds are also edible and can be cooked.
5. **Conservation**: While Parajubaea cocoides is not currently listed as endangered, its habitat in the Andes is threatened by human activities such as logging and agricultural expansion. Conservation efforts are necessary to ensure these unique ecosystems and their inhabitants are protected for the future.
This palm is indeed an unusual and interesting species due to its adaptation to cooler climates, contrasting with the common perception of palm trees as strictly tropical plants.
. Here are steps and tips to help you through the process:
1. **Seed Selection**: Healthy, fresh seeds are more likely to germinate. Choose plump seeds that are free from cracks, holes, or any signs of rotting or fungal infection.
2. **Soaking**: Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for 24 to 48 hours. This process can help soften the seed coat and jumpstart the germination process. Change the water if it becomes discolored or cloudy.
3. **Stratification (Optional)**: Some growers recommend a cold stratification process, which involves placing the seeds in a moist medium (like sphagnum moss or a paper towel) in the refrigerator for a few weeks. This process mimics the natural cool conditions that may trigger the seed's germination process.
4. **Planting Medium**: Use a well-draining seed-starting mix. A common medium is a mix of perlite, sand, and peat or coconut coir. The medium should retain moisture but also allow excess water to drain to prevent root rot.
5. **Sowing the Seeds**: Plant the seeds in the medium, not too deep — about twice the diameter of the seed. After planting, water the medium until it's damp but not waterlogged.
6. **Temperature and Humidity**: Parajubaea cocoides seeds germinate best under warm conditions. Maintain a temperature in the range of 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). You can use a heat mat to maintain a consistent temperature. Also, maintaining high humidity can aid in germination; this can be achieved by covering the pot with a plastic bag or placing it in a mini greenhouse.
7. **Light**: While the seeds don't require light to germinate, you should provide bright, indirect light once they sprout.
8. **Watering**: Keep the medium moist, but not soggy. Overwatering can cause the seeds to rot.
9. **Patience**: Germination of Parajubaea cocoides can be slow, often taking several months to a year. Check the pots regularly for signs of growth or any issues with mold or drying out.
10. **Care for Seedlings**: Once the seeds sprout, reduce the ambient humidity gradually to acclimatize the seedling to normal conditions. Continue to keep the soil slightly moist, provide bright, indirect light, and protect the seedling from extreme temperatures.
Remember, conditions can vary, and not all seeds will germinate, but with patience and care, you can increase the chances of successfully growing a Parajubaea cocoides from seed.
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