Areca catechu (Betel-nut Palm)
An evergreen tree, growing up to 15 m tall or more. Stem solitary, slightly swollen near the base, pale grey-brown, with prominant leaf scars at 15-20 cm distant, apex bearing a crown of 8-10 leaves. Leaf-sheaths 60–80 cm long, dark green; leaf up to 2 m long, with petiole to 15 cm only; leaflets rich dark green, 30-50, subopposite. Inflorescence erect, 30-60 cm long, branched broomlike to 3 orders basally, tertiary branches filiform, spicate, 15-25 cm long. Flowers numerous, unisexual, small ivory-white. Fruit an ovoid drupe, 3-6 cm long, orange to reddish, 1-seeded.
Cultivation: Thrives in tropical and subtropical climates with high humidity and well-drained soils. It prefers temperatures between 20–35°C and grows well in sandy loam to lateritic soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Adequate sunlight and rainfall (150–200 cm annually) are essential for optimal growth. Propagation is primarily by seeds, which should be sown fresh for better germination. Seeds are soaked in water for 24–48 hours and sown in nursery beds at a depth of 2–3 cm, spaced 5–7 cm apart. Seedlings are transplanted to the field after 12–18 months when they are 30–50 cm tall. Proper spacing (2.5–3 m) ensures healthy growth. Regular irrigation and mulching are necessary during the early stages. Fertilizations with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium enhances yield.
.Etymology: The genus name “Areca” is derived from the Indian vernacular name, areec or atakka, in Kerala, India. The species epithet “catechu” comes from a Malayan name caccu, which is used for the palm.
