Coconuts are the large, oval-shaped fruits of the coconut palm (Cocos nucifera), a tropical tree commonly found along coastlines and in humid, warm climates. Each coconut has a hard, fibrous outer husk (exocarp), a woody inner shell (endocarp), and a white, edible flesh (copra) that lines the interior. Inside, it often contains coconut water, a mildly sweet, hydrating liquid.

There are two main stages of coconut maturity:

Young (green) coconuts: These are harvested early and are prized for their refreshing coconut water and soft, jelly-like flesh.

Mature (brown) coconuts: These have a hard shell and firmer white meat used in cooking, oil extraction, and dried products like desiccated coconut.

Coconuts are incredibly versatile, used for food, drink, oil, cosmetics, and even as a source of fiber (coir) and charcoal. They are also culturally significant in many tropical regions and play a role in both culinary traditions and religious rituals.