Elaeis guineensis
Elaeis guineensis
Elaeis guineensis (pronunciation: eh-lay-is gwi-nee-en-sis), commonly known as the African oil palm or palm oil tree, is a species of palm native to tropical Africa, specifically in west and southwest Africa. It is also cultivated in other tropical regions for its oil-rich fruit, which is a major source of palm oil.
Etymology
The genus name Elaeis is derived from the Greek word 'elaion' which means 'oil', referring to the oil-rich fruit of the tree. The species name guineensis refers to the region of Guinea in West Africa, where the tree is native.
Description
Elaeis guineensis is a single-stemmed palm that grows up to 20 meters tall. The leaves are pinnate, and can reach 3-5 meters in length. The fruit is a drupe, containing a single seed surrounded by a hard shell, and is covered in a fleshy, oil-rich mesocarp.
Cultivation and uses
Elaeis guineensis is primarily grown for its fruit, which is used to produce palm oil. This oil is used in a wide range of products, including food, cosmetics, and biofuels. The tree is also used in traditional medicine in some African cultures.
Related terms
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Elaeis guineensis
- Wikipedia's article - Elaeis guineensis
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