The Life and Legacy of the Maldivian Coconut Palm

The coconut palm, or Dhivehi ruh, stands tall as the national tree of the Maldives and as a symbol of our heritage. Deeply rooted in the ancient traditions of our archipelago, this remarkable tree has long provided nourishment, shelter, and economic support for generations of Maldivians. From its early stages of growth to the end of its life, every part of the coconut palm has a purpose in Maldivian life.

Cultural and Nutritional Roots

Maldivians have several names for the different stages a coconut undergoes on its journey to becoming a new palm. The most cherished is the young coconut, known locally as kurumba. At this stage, it contains sweet water that is naturally hydrating and rich in electrolytes, and its soft flesh offers a healthy and refreshing snack enjoyed across the islands.

The young palm’s tender leaves are flexible and useful. They are used to build shelters, fences, and hand-woven items such as fans, mats, and hats. These handcrafted items serve practical purposes and also reflect the creativity passed down through generations.

The Heart of Island Cuisine

Once fully grown, the coconut palm becomes central to daily life. The mature coconut, or kaashi, is grated and used in traditional dishes such as mashuni and various Maldivian snacks known as hedhika. Coconut water from older coconuts is still a delicious drink, although slightly more sour than that of the kurumba. The coconut milk, or kaashi kiru, extracted from the grated flesh, is a key ingredient in Maldivian recipes, from creamy curries to beloved desserts.

Among the most prized delicacies is mudi kaashi—a sprouted coconut with a soft, spongy texture and sweet taste. It is considered a rare treat across the country. Children often gather in excitement when coconuts are being opened, hoping to discover one that has sprouted. In the islands, it is also common for families to go on mudi kaashi hunts through the wilderness, or valuthere.

Beyond the Fruit: Craft, Fuel, and Fibre

Nothing goes to waste. The husk provides coir, known locally as ‘roanu’ a strong fiber used to make ropes, brooms, mattress fillings, and brushes. The hard shell, naashi,  becomes tools from bowls and ladles to scoops, and is also burned as fuel in homes or for beachside barbecues.

The mature fronds of the palm are used in constructing traditional huts, weaving mats, and crafting baskets. They also feature in festivals and ceremonies as decorations and props.

Tapping The Sweet Sap

The flower bud of the coconut, called the Rukumaa or Ruku ehth, is tapped for its sweet sap. This sap can be consumed fresh or fermented into rukuraa, a popular traditional drink. The process of tapping is an art form, passed down through generations. Raaveriyaa, or toddy tappers, are skilled individuals who climb tall coconut palms and extract the sap, collecting it in Raa bandhi—small pots made from coconut shells, specially shaped for this purpose. The toddy can be consumed fresh , or cooked down to create dhiyaa hakuru or coconut honey. 

A Tree for Generations

Coconut palms can live up to a century, often providing for three generations of a family. When a palm reaches the end of its life, the trunk is used to build homes, traditional dhonis (boats), and household furniture. It also serves as a reliable source of firewood for kitchens across the islands. Even the roots are useful. In traditional Maldivian medicine, or Dhivehi Beys, remedies made from the roots are used to treat a variety of ailments.

Symbol of Sustainability and Culture

The coconut palm represents the Maldivian way of life, rooted in sustainability, resilience, and harmony with nature. It has quietly supported local communities through every season of life. Its oil and water are widely used in local health remedies for hair, skin, and digestion. Fronds and coconuts are key elements in cultural occasions, such as Maali (physical depictions of characters from Maldivian folklore) processions during special occasions like Eid. Environmentally, the tree plays a vital role in protecting our fragile islands. Its roots bind the soil, reduce coastal erosion, and offer much-needed shade to the islanders.

The coconut palm is a reminder of the balance between survival and simplicity, and its legacy continues to shape the story of the Maldivian isles.