A peek inside Paradise Palms, my botanical and sculpture gardens in Delray Beach…

Pinnate leaves of a betel nut palm (Areca catechu),                                                               

Also known as areca palm, Indian nut, Pinang palm, and catechu,this species of palm is believed to have originated in the Philippines. The seeds and leaves contain alkaloids such as arecaidine and arecoline, which, when chewed, are a stimulant.