Coconut Palm
Cocos nucifera · Bamboo (monocot)
- Type
- Bamboo (monocot)
- Origin
- Pan-tropical; major growing regions include Southeast Asia, India, Pacific Islands, and parts of the Caribbean.
- Hardness
- 100-2900 lbf (Very Soft to Extremely Hard); density varies drastically based on being 'High Density' outer wood or 'Low Density' core.
- Durability
- Non-durable to Moderately Durable; highly susceptible to decay and insect attack if not treated or kept dry, though outer high-density sections are more resistant.
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Grain Pattern
Highly fibrous and stringy with prominent vascular bundles; lacks true growth rings; the outer part of the stem is dense while the inner core is soft and pithy.
Color & Appearance
Medium to dark brown fibers embedded in a lighter tan or reddish-brown ground tissue; colors darken significantly with age and finish application.
Hardness (Janka)
100-2900 lbf (Very Soft to Extremely Hard); density varies drastically based on being 'High Density' outer wood or 'Low Density' core.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Non-durable to Moderately Durable; highly susceptible to decay and insect attack if not treated or kept dry, though outer high-density sections are more resistant.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 7.00 USD per board foot depending on density and thickness of the high-density outer shell.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly milled or recently harvested; the fibrous splinters and rough surface indicate recent rough-sawn processing with no significant oxidation or wear.
- Sustainability Status
- Highly Sustainable; widely available as a byproduct of the coconut fruit industry and not listed on CITES or IUCN endangered lists.
Common Uses
Furniture, flooring (as 'Red Palm' or 'Coco Palm'), decorative novelties, walking sticks, structural posts in tropical regions, and knife handles.
Geographic Origin
Pan-tropical; major growing regions include Southeast Asia, India, Pacific Islands, and parts of the Caribbean.
Workability
Difficult; the stringy fibers cause significant tearout and dull blades quickly. High-density pieces behave like plastic or bone, while low-density pieces crumble easily. Sanding is the best way to achieve a smooth finish.
Finish Recommendations
Film-building finishes like polyurethane or lacquer are recommended to seal the thirsty fibers and prevent splintering; requires a sanding sealer.
Notable Features
Often referred to as 'Red Palm'; it is technically a monocot and not a tree; has a distinct 'porcupine' look on the end grain due to vascular bundles.
