In medieval Europe, these nuts were considered valuable curiosities, often mounted in gold and silver as or talismans, believed to have powerful aphrodisiac and antidote properties against poison. 3.2 National Symbol of Seychelles The Coco de Mer is the national tree of Seychelles. Its silhouette appears on government logos, stamps, currency, and national airline tailfins. It is central to local tourism and folklore, representing the islands’ unique natural heritage. 4. Distribution and Habitat | Island | Status | Estimated Population | |------------------|-------------------------------------------|--------------------------| | Praslin (Vallée de Mai) | UNESCO World Heritage Site, core habitat | ~4,000 mature trees | | Curieuse | Protected as a marine national park | ~500 mature trees | | Other islands | Transplanted (e.g., Silhouette, La Digue) | Small numbers |