NAME: Entada gigas
FAMILY: Fabaceae (Leguminosae)
COMMON NAMES: Sea bean, Monkey ladder, Nickernut
LOCAL NAMES: N/A
MORPHOLOGICAL DESCRIPTION: Entada gigas is a large, woody vine that can grow to impressive lengths, often exceeding 30 meters. It has a thick, sturdy stem with a rough and furrowed bark. The leaves are compound and alternate, composed of numerous leaflets that are oblong or elliptical in shape, measuring about 10-20 centimeters long. The flowers are small, inconspicuous, and typically white or cream in color. The plant produces enormous, elongated, woody seed pods that can reach lengths of up to 2 meters. These pods are usually curved and contain large, smooth, and hard seeds that are round or oval in shape.
USEFUL PART(s): The seeds and bark of Entada gigas are the most commonly used parts.
GENERAL USES:
Cultural and Spiritual Significance: Similar to other members of the Entada genus, Entada gigas seeds are highly regarded for their symbolic and spiritual significance. They are often used as decorative items, amulets, and talismans, representing protection, strength, and good luck in various cultures.
Ornamental Purposes: The large and unique seed pods of Entada gigas are sought after by collectors and enthusiasts for their decorative value. They are frequently incorporated into crafts, jewelry, and ornamental displays.
GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION: Entada gigas is primarily found in tropical coastal regions. It is native to regions of Central America, including Panama and Costa Rica, as well as parts of the Caribbean, such as the Bahamas and Cuba.
WHY IS IT GREEN? As with other plants, Entada gigas appears green due to the presence of chlorophyll in its leaves. Chlorophyll is a pigment that captures sunlight during photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy. Chlorophyll absorbs red and blue wavelengths of light while reflecting green light, giving plants their characteristic green color.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: Entada gigas plays a role in coastal ecosystems by providing habitat and shelter for various organisms. Its large vines and foliage create a network of support for climbing plants and offer a perch for birds and other animals. Additionally, the seeds of Entada gigas can be dispersed by ocean currents, potentially contributing to the dispersal of plant life across different coastal regions.
FUN FACT: The seed pods of Entada gigas are known for their exceptional size and buoyancy, similar to the pods of Entada africana. They are sometimes referred to as "sea hearts" due to their heart-like shape and ability to float in seawater. These pods can drift across vast distances, sometimes being carried by ocean currents and washing up on distant shores. They are treasured finds for beachcombers and collectors.
Further Reading:
"The Morphology, Anatomy, and Germination of the Seed of Entada gigas (L.) Fawc. et Rendle (Leguminosae-Mimosoideae)." By E.M. Pantano and C. Aparecido.
"Morphological and Molecular Analysis of Entada gigas Seeds from the Atlantic Rainforest and Pantanal Biomes in Brazil." By V.C. Bianchi and others.
"Entada gigas (Fabaceae), a Plant Species from Amazonia with Promising Pharmacological Properties." By J.M. Rosa and others.