The interior of Praslin Island is unlike any of the other Seychelles Islands – its jungle feels almost primeval. There is a special reason for this – it is one of only two places in the world where a certain palm tree species grows wild. While the trees themselves can grow to an impressive 130 feet in height, and live almost 200 years,  the seeds are the real attraction and must be seen to be believed.

The best area on Praslin to see this is in the Vallee de Mai National Park, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983. While the smallest UNESCO site at 43 acres,  the Vallee de Mai is so lush and pre historical it is often likened to the  Garden of Eden.

The palm trees species that is endemic to Praslin is called the Coco de Mer or Seychelles palm and there are 400 of these trees in the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve. The genus of this tree is “Logoicea”  and is more commonly known are the sea, coco de mer or double coconut.

The Coco de Mer, or coconut or seeds of this palm are the true stars – they are the largest seeds in the plant kingdom, weighing up to 40 pounds.

 

 

 

Historically, these seeds had many uses.  In Ayurvedic and Chinese practices the seeds’ kernels were ground and used to treat respiratory issues and boost vitality and stamina.  Also, given its suggestive shape, it is not surprising  that it has long standing reputation of being a powerful aphrodisiac and is still in high demand in Asian markets.  The seeds are used for spiritual and Feng Shui practices as it shape is thought to invite prosperity, balance energy and of course cultivate intimacy.  When polished, or carved, these seeds are highly prized decor and jewelry.

However, given the  Coco de Mer is an endangered species and is so rare, the Seychelles government has established  strict conservation policies as well as trade regulations  They can only be purchased through licensed vendors on the islands of Mahe’, Praslin and La Digue and must have mandatory certificates of authenticity and export permits.  Simple Coco de Mer seeds can be cost between $300 and $1000, while carved  antique and rare specimens can cost as much as $5800:

 

 

 

Personally, I feel they are most beautiful hanging naturally from the trees. There is a very important inhabitant in the Vallée  de Mai who agrees  with me – the Seychelles Black parrot, which is the national bird of the islands.  It is the last surviving parrot species in the entire archipelago.  Here are some additional facts about this rare bird:

• Found only on Praslin Island, mostly in the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve 
• Its color is actually a dark grey-brown.  Male and females look the same.
• Relies on the mature palm forests and old, deep tree cavities for nesting.
• Feeds on the flowers and nectar of the  Coco de Mer palm.

 

 

The black parrot is an endangered species. Their habitat area is very small as they rely on the hollowed out Coco de Mer palm trunks for nesting. They are threatened by myna birds, an invasive species that’s not only competes for the precious nesting sites, but also will eat black parrot eggs and chicks.  Presently there are between 1000 and 2000 black parrots left.

Due to its vulnerability, the black parrot is legally protected.  It cannot be hunted or captured and its home is protected by being a  UNESCO World Heritage Site.

IMHO,  it is  more critical to protect the Coco de Mer palm trees than have their seeds fill the shelves of collectors.

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