PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN NEInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Not Evaluated — not yet assessed against the IUCN Red List criteria.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Carludovica palmata
Panama Hat Plant
Ruiz & Pav., 1798
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
Stemless perennial herbaceous plant with large, pleated, fan-shaped leaves growing directly from underground rhizomes. Its leaves can measure up to 2-3 meters and are divided into four deep segments.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
Reviewed by
Under Review
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
Other Names (Global)Regional and multilingual names used for this species across different countries and languages.
Palma de sombreroIracaJipijapa
Toquilla palmTaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Tracheophyta
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Liliopsida
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Pandanales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Cyclanthaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Carludovica
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.Ruiz & Pav., 1798
Record Completeness
93%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Native
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Stable
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
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Growth HabitPhysical form and structure of the plant: tree, shrub, herb, vine, epiphyte, aquatic, etc.
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Leaf TypeLeaf characteristics: deciduous (seasonal shed), evergreen, simple, compound, needle-like, etc.
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Flowering SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Wet Season
Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
Inhabits the understory of tropical rainforests and disturbed areas from southern Mexico to Bolivia. It prefers fertile, well-drained soils with high environmental humidity.Light & Water NeedsSunlight intensity and moisture levels this plant needs to grow and reproduce successfully. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
Despite its appearance, it is not a palm. It produces a unique spadix-shaped inflorescence with fragrant white flowers that attract beetles for pollination.Toxicity / UsesToxic compounds present and their documented effects on humans or other organisms. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!Physical Measures
Length (cm)
150.0 - 300.0 cm
Reproductive StructuresFlowers, fruits, and seeds — the reproductive organs and their seasonal appearance.
Flower Photos (Max 2)
No imageFruit Photos (Max 2)
No imageEvolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
Leaves with strong parallel venation that allows folding without damage during storms.
Long petioles that elevate the leaves above competitors in the understory.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Overexploitation of young leaves for the craft industry without allowing the plant to recover.
Drainage of wetlands and land conversion for cattle ranching.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
The fiber from its young leaves is the exclusive material used to weave the famous 'Panama Hats', which are actually native to Ecuador.
Its ripe fruits are edible and have a sweet taste reminiscent of watermelon or melon.