The biggest seed in the world is the remarkable coco de mer.
Introducing the World's Largest Seed
The title of the world's biggest seed belongs to the coco de mer (Lodoicea maldivica). This extraordinary seed is produced by a specific type of palm tree native to the Seychelles islands.
Unlike typical small seeds, the coco de mer is instantly recognizable by its massive size and unusual, often heart-shaped, form, which can resemble a human pelvis or buttocks.
Impressive Dimensions and Weight
The sheer scale of the coco de mer seed is what earns it the top spot. According to the reference provided:
- It can reach about 30 centimetres (12 inches) in length.
- It can weigh up to 18 kilograms (40 pounds).
To put that into perspective, an 18-kilogram seed is heavier than a standard bowling ball and significantly larger than any other seed found globally. This makes the coco de mer not only the biggest seed but also one of the heaviest plant reproductive units known.
Quick Facts: Coco de Mer Seed
Here's a summary of the impressive characteristics of the coco de mer seed:
| Characteristic | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Seed Name | Coco de Mer |
| Source Plant | Palm Tree (Lodoicea maldivica) |
| Maximum Length | ~30 cm (12 inches) |
| Maximum Weight | ~18 kg (40 pounds) |
| Distinction | World's Largest Seed |
Unique Characteristics
The coco de mer is renowned for several reasons:
- It is produced by a dioecious palm tree, meaning individual trees are either male or female.
- The seed takes an exceptionally long time to germinate and grow, often years.
- Historically, these seeds were found washed ashore in distant lands, leading to myths and legends before their true origin was discovered in the Seychelles.
The massive size of the seed is thought to be an adaptation to allow the seedling to establish itself in challenging environments by providing a large store of nutrients.
