Palm trees have a powerful presence, often representing a paradise on earth with their tall, majestic trunks and large, bright leaves. But did you know that each palm tree species has a scientific name?
Curiously, the genus name of most palms is either a Latin or Greek derived version of the English word ‘palm’. The species name, which acts as an identifier of each palm species, is often derived from its native distribution, its physical characteristics, or an homage to its significant discoverer or researcher. The scientific name of a palm tree is typically composed of two parts, a genus and a species name, such as Phoenix dactylifera.
Palm trees are of economic, ecological, and aesthetic importance in many areas of the world, with over 2650 recognized species of palm trees. Many species have been introduced to regions outside of their native habitat through centuries of human trade and cultivation, making them among the most widely distributed plants in the world. The scientific study of palms is known as palmology.
The scientific nomenclature of palm trees is a matter of contention for some researchers. Naming conflicts arise when taxonomic rules and scientific consensus varies widely between researchers. Regardless, a common definition of the scientific name of a palm tree is the two-part botanical name assigned to it, including the genus and species of the palm.
Palmouthology is a fascinating field of science, and its experts work hard to advance their knowledge in the area. Research is conducted on preserved specimens at natural history museums, herbaria and libraries as well as by field work by dedicated palm biologists and palmycologists in their natural habitats. The expertise they bring to the field helps to advance the knowledge of such a thrilling and iconic species.
There are hundreds of palm species used in gardens and landscapes by professionals and home gardeners alike. Each palm species has its own unique visual, physical and growth characteristics. The ideal palm species for your garden may depend on climate, soil, amount of light and other factors. Knowing the scientific name of a palm tree can help you to identify the tree and determine its perfect location for your specific needs.
Information about scientifically classified palm species can be available from sources such as the International Palm Society, the Palmtree Database and Kew Gardens. All of these sources provide information about various palm species, including the scientific name and range of the species.
Palm Tree Cladistics
Cladistics is the science of analyzing data in order to classify and organize Palm species into genealogical relationships, or a genetic ‘family tree’. This offers an important system of classification, especially in the case of palm trees in which so many species had previously been mis-categorized or poorly labelled. Cladistics helps to present views on the evolutionary histories of certain palm species and also allows an understanding of how descendants may have deviated from a common ancestor. Furthermore, adepts of the science also can describe phylogenetic ‘relations of resemblance’ between various species of palm.
Edibility of Palm Trees
Palm trees hold many economic advantages. The fruits, nuts, stems and leaves of many species, including the date palm Phoenix dactylifera, are edible. Other palms such as the Coconut palm, Cocos nucifera, are an important source of nutrition in parts of the world, offering essential vitamins and minerals to the fortunate local populations. Palm products are also the basis of human-made foodstuffs such as cooking oils and flour, which in turn find a place in many modern, nutritious diets around the world.
Threats to Palm Trees
Sadly, some palm species are threatened by the dynamic eco-systems in which they exist. Natural causes of decline range from genetic factors and climate change through to diseases, pests and competition for resources. Unsustainable harvesting of products, such as Palmyra fruit, can also hasten decline and threaten the future of species, unless carefully managed by those nations and individuals responsible for them.
Economic Value of Palm Trees
The economic value of palm trees to nations and local populations is considerable. Palmyra fruit offers significant income opportunities to many, while a handful of other species provide essential oils, starches, fibers and waxes used in many industries. Coconut palms provide many humans with sustenance, as well as household items and traditional goods such as mats and baskets.
Palm Tree Conservation
The conservation of palm species is increasingly important in today’s world, particularly given the severity of climate change and its potential effects on the eco-systems which support Palm growth. Unfortunately, many species of palm are highly threatened by human activity, as well as natural factors, leading to declines in population size. Governments, experts and locals must collaborate to preserve the vital benefits which palm species have to offer.
