Souari Nut. Butter Nut

Caryocar nuciferum

Physical Characteristics

Caryocar nuciferum is an evergreen Tree growing to 45 m (147ft) by 30 m (98ft) 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 cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Northern S. America - Brazil to Guyana.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Oil Seed Edible Uses: Oil Seed - raw or cooked. The large, soft, white kernels have a delicious, rich, almond-like flavour and are enclosed in a hard shell[63 , 200 , 301 ]. The seed contains over 60% fat[63 ]. The kidney-shaped kernel is usually well over 5cm long and 2cm in diameter[63 ]. The seed shell is about 7mm thick and difficult to crack[63 ]. The large fruit containing the seeds can weigh up to 11kg and measure 18cm in diameter, it contains 1 - 4 seeds (usually 1 or 2) which are easily extracted from it[63 , 200 ]. An edible oil is obtained from the seed[301 ]. Excellent for preparing bakery products[301 ]. Fruit - cooked[301 ]. The oily, yellow pulp is cooked and eaten as a vegetable[301 ].

Medicinal Uses

Febrifuge The whole plant is used as a febrifuge[348 ].

Known Hazards

None known