Pattaya – Nong Nooch Tropical Garden has achieved a botanical breakthrough by successfully harvesting nine rare Coco de Mer fruits, yielding ten seeds—including an exceptionally rare twin seed—with a combined weight of 48.2 kilograms. The haul, valued at over 1 million baht, marks a milestone in global horticulture and elevates Thailand’s standing in plant conservation.

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The Coco de Mer (Lodoicea maldivica), native only to the Seychelles, produces the world’s largest and heaviest seed, often weighing up to 25 kilograms. Its distinctive, curvaceous shape has earned it playful nicknames like the “love nut” and “sea coconut.” In the wild, the palm takes up to 60 years to bear fruit, with seeds requiring seven more years to ripen and an additional two years to germinate. However, Nong Nooch’s decades of meticulous cultivation have reduced the fruiting cycle to just 30 years—a feat celebrated by botanists worldwide.

“This is a landmark achievement for Thailand’s botanical community,” said Kamphon Tansacha, President of Nong Nooch Pattaya. The garden, home to over 18,000 plant species, has now nurtured 229 Coco de Mer trees, with the latest twin seed underscoring its horticultural expertise. Each seed commands a price exceeding 100,000 baht due to its rarity and symbolic allure.

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The Guinness World Record-holding species has long fascinated scientists and collectors, with its seeds historically traded as royal curiosities. Nong Nooch’s success not only advances conservation but also opens doors for international collaborations in rare plant preservation.

“These seeds represent more than monetary value—they’re a testament to patience and innovation in saving Earth’s botanical treasures,” Kamphon added, inviting global gardens to join conservation efforts through plant exchanges.

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As Thailand cements its role in safeguarding endangered flora, Nong Nooch’s record-breaking harvest proves that even nature’s most elusive wonders can thrive under dedicated care. The garden plans to showcase the seeds while continuing its mission to protect the planet’s rarest plants.

-Thailand News (TN)