The 'walking palm tree' myth debunked by science

The palm tree Socratea exorrhiza, often called the 'cashapona', has long fascinated people with its supposed ability to 'walk'. Local legends claim it can move up to 20 metres a year by growing new roots and abandoning old ones. Yet, science tells a different story. According to folklore, the palm shifts position by extending its stilt-like roots in one direction while shedding others. This idea gained traction in the 1980s, with rainforest guides popularising the myth of the 'walking palm tree'.

A 2005 study, however, found no evidence of the trunk actually moving. Researchers confirmed that Socratea exorrhiza does not uproot itself or travel across the forest floor. Instead, its unique root system serves a different purpose.

The palm’s long, elevated roots provide stability in uneven or swampy ground. They allow it to remain upright without developing a thick trunk. This adaptation also helps the tree grow rapidly upwards, taking advantage of light gaps in the dense forest canopy. While the 'walking palm' myth persists, the tree’s real ability lies in its resilience. Its root structure keeps it steady in difficult soils and gives it a height advantage in crowded rainforests. The legend, though charming, remains unsupported by scientific observation.