Silver Thatch Palm

Description:

The Silver Thatch Palm (Coccothrinax proctorii) is unique to the Cayman Islands. Known locally as "Tatch", the upper sides of the fronds are light green, but the underside is a silvery colour - hence their name. The fronds are very tough, and their broad shape makes them an effective covering. Silver Thatch Palm leaves were traditionally used to thatch roofs, and this use can still be seen on some of the cabanas and beach bars around the islands. Although tough, cool and rainproof, the thatch needs to be replaced every 5-6 years (or 9 if, according to folklore, the leaves were cut at the time of the full moon). The fronds were also used to weave hats, baskets and fans, examples of which can be found in some tourist and craft shops. One of the properties of the dried leaf is that it is resistant to the effects of salt water. This lead to the development of the ropemaking industry. Rope made from the Silver Thach Palm was highly prized in Cuba and Jamaica for use in the shipping, fishing and sugar industries. Ropemaking was a laborious process. First, the "tops" (new unopened leaves) had to be harvested, often involving a long trek inland to where the palm trees grew. The tops were then hung up in bundles to dry before being split into strands. Three strands were then twisted together to make the rope. The rope was then bartered with local storekeepers for basic necessities.

Habitat:

Property along coastline.