Why are coconuts fuzzy?

Plants

	Tweet	Pin It

0

by Mya Kagan (whyzz writer) >> more about the author

Would you ever have guessed that the stringy brown hair on the outside of a coconut has a special name and a special use??

Coconuts contain many layers. The outermost layer of a coconut is a leathery “husk” which is often green or orange. Although they grow this way on trees, when you buy a coconut at a store, this outer husk has usually already been removed and the coconut might look more like what you’re familiar with: Brown and fuzzy.

The hair of a coconut’s shell is also known as “coir.” Coir is a natural fiber and because it’s so strong, it’s often used in the making of things like rope or brushes! One reason why coconuts may benefit from being covered in the coir is that coir is resistant to salt water. – Since coconuts usually grow naturally near salty oceans, being protected by salt-water resistant hair probably has helped them to survive!

Get tropical!

Aside from coconuts, what are some other things you’re familiar with which often grow or come from tropical environments? Mangoes might be one good example! Can you think of any others?

Draw a picture of your favorite tropical scene. What kinds of things would you want to include? Maybe a coconut-filled palm? How about an ocean full of fish? Some special birds??