Caranday Palm, Caranda Palm, Caranda Palm Wax

Copernicia alba

Physical Characteristics

Copernicia alba is an evergreen Tree growing to 18 m (59ft) by 3 m (9ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Southern and western S. America - Argentina, Paraguay, central Brazil, Bolivia.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Shoots Edible Uses: Drink The fruit are eaten fresh or used for juice and for alcoholic drinks. The tips of young plants can be eaten.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

Plant has spines or sharp edges; use extreme caution when handling