It needs so much sunlight, it evolved to soar above competing canopy, fronds stretching out like solar panels. See how else it adapted to space, sand and sea.

From the tropical coconut palm tree, Cocos nucifera ... Apply this to the base of your palm tree to insulate the roots but keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.' ...

Despite their association with the West Indies, the coconut palm is not native to the French archipelago and does not have the same capacity as some local species to put down deep roots.