The palm tree Phytelephas aequatorialis, which bears the common names tagua palm and nut palm,or tagua. This palm is found in the tropical rainforests of South America, especially in Ecuador. It has a woody trunk which can grow to 20 m in height and very long pinnate leaves.

The plants are dioecious, with the female individuals bearing large brown conical fruits, each approximately the size of a grapefruit and covered in a horned husk, containing usually four seeds. Immature seeds contain sweet edible pulp. Mature seeds are harder than wood and are encased in a shell. The endosperm is a white hemicellulose material that is so hard it can be polished and carved. Indeed, the plant's genus name Phytelephas means "elephant plant".

The edible immature seeds are often dispersed by rainforest rodents such as agoutis. In some rural areas the trees are used to attract rodents, which are then captured for their meat. The Tagua Nut is a natural material which doesn't destroy the tree and helps protect the environment.

The Tagua Tree is a palm tree that?grows freely under some rare subtropical climates. Its weight, colour & hardness is similar to that of elephant, thus It is an ideal substitute. By purchasing this item you not only help to keep an ancient craft alive, but also help to save the african elephant!!!