Yes I know that coconuts are not unique to just Hawaii but I loved our coconut trees and coconuts have always fascinated me. For many in the world the coconut tree is a substantial part of life. From foods and drink to utencils, cordage, baskets, oil, furniture, cosmetics and other uses the coconut is a wonderful resource!

Coconuts floated along on ocean currents until they landed, some already sprouting on distant shores and found new homes on many islands and continents. There are many theories as to how they came to be in many places. It's not known where they first originated from but they were dubbed "Pharoah's nut" by Marco Polo.

Today they are cultivated and grown commercially for various uses. Still as useful as they always have been. Some of the various ways that coconuts and the coconut tree are and have been used include:

The young coconuts have a sweet juice and the meat is very thin, soft and delicate labeled by some as jelly.

The coconut water is a rich source of potassium and is nutritious.

The mature coconuts have a thick firm meat and are used in candies, baked goods and are often in shredded or grated form. They also have more oil which has been harvested for using in cooking, making soaps and cosmetics. Coconut creams, coconut milk and oil are products of mature coconuts.

Everything about the coconut tree has been used in one way or another. One of the interesting facts about the husk of the coconut is that the fibers can be used in ropes or twine and are very resistant to salt water so is more durable than other fibers. Plus it is used for fuel, fibers for clothing, material for filters, mats, and many other things.

The fronds of the leaves have been used in the past for roof thatch for their homes. These days you can find them woven into hats, baskets, fans and more crafts.

The shells of coconuts are hard and can be carved, cut and used for various things such as decorations, wind chimes, hanging planters, bowls and many more things... the imagination is the limit with these.

The wood is called porcupine wood and is used for making furniture once the tree is no longer producing coconuts.

Even the roots have been known to be used as dye, astingents, mouth washes and coconut "coffee".

Dried coconut bark was used to ignite coals in camphor censers.

Watching the neighborhood boys climb the coconut trees with gravity defying moves was amazing! If you ever visit Hawaii you've got to see coconut harvesting. My father used to swing on the leaves when they were almost ready to fall off until they did. While you are in Hawii visit the Bishop Museum for more on the history of coconuts. Check out all the wonderful gifts in the shops made from carved &/or polished coconut shells and other parts of the tree. Try a drink from a coconut and for the adventurous at heart.. hmmm maybe a coconut bra and hula skirt? :) Ok.. but there is an amazing tree out there called the coconut tree and the coconut is a product used worldwide in cooking and for other uses. I love coconut shrimp, coconut pie and all kinds of wonderful delights from this delicious treat.

The amazing coconut. What wonderful memories from Hawaii!

Mahalo Nui Loa for visiting!