Carludovica palmata

Carludovica palmata is a species of flowering plant in the family Cyclanthaceae. It is not a true palm, but its leaves are similar to the leaves of some true palms, such as Chelyocarpus ulei. Unlike several true palms, C. palmata does not develop a woody trunk. Its female flowers have large stigmas, and its male flowers have a lot of pollen.

Uses and cultivation

The Panama hat palm is cultivated from Central America to Bolivia. Its soft, flexible, and durable fibers are used to weave Panama hats and other items. Its leaf shoots are consumed in Central America.