Tagua is the seed of the palm tree is called Phitelephas Aequatorialis, a native species that grows wild in the tropical rainforests of Ecuador, specifically in the Manabí, Esmeraldas Guayas Provinces. This natural product is widely known as “vegetable ivory” for its color and hardness. Currently the Tagua is mainly used to create unique pieces of jewelery and buttons. This all happens within a context of sustainable development, as the “vegetable ivory” is a versatile and renewable resource.

To learn more about the characteristics, benefits and uses of this natural material we have made a list of ten truths set forth below:

1The Tagua has been exploited since colonial times by the Spaniards who came to the Americas. From the first moment the tagua nut was used in the production of buttons, umbrella handles, walking sticks, pipes, napkin rings, chess pieces, among other things.

The palm from which the tagua is obtained reaches between 5 and 6 meters high. Since the palm is planted we have to wait for 14-15 years to collect their first fruits.

The Tagua tree continuously produces about three crops a year, and these production continues for over a hundred years.