About Cycas seemannii Braun
Cycas seemannii is a cycad species distributed across Fiji, Vanuatu, Tonga, and New Caledonia; within Vanuatu, it is specifically found on the island of Efate. In Vanuatu, this cycad is called namele, and it holds an important place as a symbol of local traditional culture. It functions as a strong indicator of taboo. A pair of namele leaves is featured on Vanuatu's national flag and national coat of arms. Alongside nanggaria, another Vanuatu cultural symbol, namele contributes its name to Nagriamel, an indigenous political movement from the region.
