Cycas seemannii

Location & distribution maps

Plant  information

Overview:

• Cycas seemannii is a species of cycad found in Fiji, Vanuatu (in Efate), Tonga, and New Caledonia

• In Vanuatu, the cycad is known as namele and is an important symbol of traditional culture

• It serves as a powerful taboo sign, and a pair of namele leaves appears on the national flag and coat of arms

• Together with the nanggaria plant, another symbol of Vanuatu culture, the namele also gives its name to Nagriamel, an indigenous political movement.

Sources of information:

•  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cycas_seemannii (2024)