General Information
Hearts of palm is encased in a tough cylindrical, ivory husk. Inside is a velvety, tender flesh that is delicately flavored. Tasting somewhat like an artichoke, it has the appearance similar to that of white asparagus. About four inches in length, individual hearts may be as thin as a pencil or measure nearly one to one-and-one-half inches in diameter.
History
Young stems produced by a palm tree known as “bactris gasipaes”, hearts of palm have been cultivated in Central America since the time of the Mayas. In the Republic of Panama, Central America, top quality hearts of palm thrive in the rural area of Panama. Also, field-grown in the tropical humid areas of Costa Rica, hearts of palm are, literally, the heart of the sabal Palmetto tree. This spectacular tall tough-barked palm is the state tree of Florida and is protected by Florida state law. The hearts of palm grown in the United States are mainly from Florida.
