Curious case of 'Walking Palm Trees'

17 Oct,2023

Socratea exorrhiza is a palm native to rainforests in tropical Central and South America. The tree supposedly “walks” from shade to sunlight by growing roots in the direction it wants to travel.

Walking Palm

Some say the process takes a couple of years, while one paleobiologist suggests the tree moves two or three centimeters per day.

Short walks

Unlike other trees that have roots fully hidden underground, the walking palm has a higher root system that grows outwards from the base of the tree, several feet off the ground.

Root System

Some believe that the roots allow the tree to be more stable in swampy areas.

Swampy areas

The amazing ambulatory ability of the walking tree has been told by rainforest guides to tourists for years

Stories by tourists

Not only does this species demonstrate remarkable resilience but also serves as an example of nature’s adaptability when faced with environmental pressures

Adaptability

This palm truly stands out among all other plants due to its incredible ability to walk which allows it to survive better than many other trees in harsh climates.

Best of all?