Ubussu, Troolie Palm

Manicaria saccifera

Physical Characteristics

Manicaria saccifera is an evergreen Tree growing to 10 m (32ft) by 10 m (32ft) 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. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist or wet soil.

Distribution

S. America - Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, the Guyanas; north to Trinidad; and through Central America to Guatemala.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Drink An edible oil is obtained from the seeds[317 ]. The liquid endosperm of unripe fruits is drunk[317 , 768 ]. The fruit is 4 - 6cm in diameter[412 ]. Sago is obtained from the starchy stems[317 , 768 ].

Medicinal Uses

Antiasthmatic Antidiarrhoeal Antitussive Diuretic Several parts of the palm, including the apical bud, serve medicinal purposes[317 , 763 ]. A decoction of the root, combined with bamboo leaves and a decoction of Euterpe precatoria roots, is used to treat asthma and coughs[348 ]. The liquid from immature, green fruits is employed as a diuretic, and remedy for coughs, asthma and thrush[348 ]. It is also used to treat diarrhoea[348 ].

Known Hazards

None known