Elaeis guineensis, commonly known as the oil palm, is a tropical plant renowned for its vital role in the production of vegetable oil. Native to West Africa, this majestic species belongs to the Arecaceae family. The oil palm is easily recognisable by its long, feather-like fronds that form an elegant crown atop a sturdy trunk, typically reaching heights of between 20 and 30 metres. Its fruits, which grow in dense clusters, have a fleshy pulp rich in oil and a seed containing a second source of oil, known as palm kernel oil.
At the Au Bois Vert Botanical Garden in Ivato, this plant perfectly showcases the diversity of tropical species. Well-suited to hot, humid climates, the oil palm thrives in lowland areas where the soil is well-drained and nutrient-rich. Its remarkable lifespan can extend from 25 to 30 years, with optimal fruit production starting as early as three to four years of age. Furthermore, given ideal conditions, it flowers throughout the year, ensuring a continuous harvest.
Visitors to this natural site, located not far from Antananarivo, can admire this iconic tree while exploring its ecological and economic significance. Guests of the hotel, restaurant, or lodge can gain insight into how Elaeis guineensis plays a crucial role not only in supporting local biodiversity but also in sustaining the regional economy through vegetable oil production.
Plant use
The oil palm is primarily cultivated for the production of palm oil, a key ingredient widely used across the food, cosmetics, and energy industries. The oil extracted from its flesh is found in countless products, ranging from margarines and moisturisers to biofuels. Palm kernel oil, derived from the seed, is also highly valued for its rich content of saturated fatty acids, making it ideal for use in soaps and detergents. Beyond its fruit, the oil palm provides several other valuable resources. Its fibres are used to produce carpets and ropes, while the kernels can serve as a source of fuel. Within the botanical garden, the plant also has an educational role, raising visitors' awareness about environmental issues linked to intensive cultivation, such as deforestation and biodiversity loss. At Au Bois Vert, initiatives are in place to promote sustainable practices, encouraging a harmonious balance between human activities and the natural world. Whether you are staying at the lodge or simply visiting Ivato, be sure to take the opportunity to discover this remarkable plant and its many uses at the heart of Madagascar’s ecosystem.
Key information
| Common name | Oil palm |
| Scientific name | Elaeis guineensis |
| Origin | West Africa |
| Natural habitat | Tropical rainforests |
| Life cycle | 25-30 years old |
| Flowering period | Continuous (in tropical climates) |
