Exploring the Varieties of Coconuts in Kerala
Kerala, often referred to as "God's Own Country," is renowned for its lush landscapes, serene backwaters, and rich cultural heritage. Among its many natural treasures, the coconut holds a special place, both in the daily lives of its people and in its economy. The state is one of the largest producers of coconuts in India, and it boasts a diverse range of coconut varieties. Let's delve into the fascinating world of Kerala's coconuts and explore the unique characteristics of its most popular varieties.
The West Coast Tall coconut is the most prevalent variety in Kerala. Known for its resilience and adaptability, WCT is a tall and robust tree that can grow up to 20-30 meters in height. The nuts are medium to large-sized, and the trees start bearing fruit after 6-7 years of planting. WCT coconuts are prized for their high copra (dried kernel) and oil content, making them ideal for oil extraction and culinary use. The water inside is slightly sweet, offering a refreshing drink, especially in the scorching summer months.
East Coast Tall (ECT): Another tall variety, the East Coast Tall, is similar to its western counterpart but typically thrives in the coastal regions. These trees also grow tall and produce large nuts with a high oil content. ECT coconuts are well-regarded for their flavor and are often used in traditional Kerala dishes and sweets. The trees are hardy and can withstand strong winds and salt spray, making them suitable for coastal plantations.
Kerala also cultivates several dwarf varieties, which are shorter in stature and start bearing fruit much earlier than tall varieties, usually within 3-4 years. Some popular dwarf varieties include:
Chowghat Orange Dwarf (COD): Recognized by its vibrant orange-colored nuts, COD is a favorite for ornamental planting as well as for tender coconut water, which is sweet and mildly flavored.
Chowghat Green Dwarf (CGD): As the name suggests, this variety bears green nuts and is mainly grown for its tender coconut water. The nuts are smaller but packed with sweet, refreshing water.
Malayan Dwarf: Available in green, yellow, and orange hues, the Malayan Dwarf is a versatile variety. It's highly valued for its tender coconut water and also used in hybridization programs to develop new coconut breeds.
To enhance productivity and disease resistance, hybrid varieties are developed by cross-breeding tall and dwarf coconuts. These hybrids combine the best traits of both parent varieties, such as early fruiting, higher yield, and better copra quality. Some notable hybrid varieties in Kerala include:
Kerasankara: A cross between the West Coast Tall and the Malayan Dwarf, Kerasankara is known for its early bearing and high yield. The nuts are medium-sized with a good copra content, making them suitable for commercial cultivation.
Chandrasankara: This hybrid of the Chowghat Green Dwarf and the West Coast Tall is popular for its high yield and tender coconut water. The nuts have a pleasing flavor and are often sold fresh in local markets.
Developed by the Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (CPCRI), Kalpa varieties are designed to improve productivity and disease resistance. Some prominent Kalpa varieties include:
Kalpa Pratibha: Known for its high copra and oil yield, Kalpa Pratibha is a tall variety that performs well under rain-fed conditions.
Kalpa Samrudhi: This hybrid variety is prized for its early bearing and high yield, with nuts that have excellent copra quality.
Kalpa Sree: Ideal for tender coconut production, Kalpa Sree is a dwarf variety with sweet water and good disease resistance.
In conclusion, Kerala's rich coconut heritage is reflected in the diversity of its coconut varieties, each with unique characteristics and uses. From the towering West Coast Tall to the sweet, tender coconuts of the Chowghat Dwarf varieties, the coconuts of Kerala play a vital role in the state's culture, cuisine, and economy. Whether enjoyed as a refreshing drink, used in cooking, or processed for oil, these versatile nuts are truly a gift from nature to the people of Kerala.