Palm trees belong to the Arecaceae family (alternatively called Palmae). They grow mainly in the tropics. These plants are characterized by large leaves resembling the shape of a plume or fan. The leaves are usually located at the spire of a high, unbranched trunk. People who live in temperate climate associate palm trees with the holiday in the tropics and exotic delicacies, such as coconuts or dates. Palm oil derived from African oil palm is widely used in the food and cosmetic industry.