Pao Nut

Barringtonia novae hiberniae

Physical Characteristics

Barringtonia novae hiberniae is an evergreen Tree growing to 10 m (32ft) by 7 m (23ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The flowers are pollinated by Moths, Bats. 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 and can grow in very alkaline and saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

Australasia - New Guinea to the Bismarck Islands, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Seed Edible Uses: Seed - raw or roasted[658 ]. A flavour like raw peanuts[324 ]. It has a fairly hard texture[658 ]. The seed is about 3cm long and 1 - 2cm wide[658 ].

Medicinal Uses

Abortifacient Stomachic The bark is used in the treatment of stomach ailments and gonorrhoea[339 ]. A strong tea made from the bark is claimed to induce abortion and definitive sterility[389 ].

Known Hazards

None known