Pao nuts, Cut nut

Barringtonia procera

Physical Characteristics

Barringtonia procera is an evergreen Tree growing to 10 m (32ft) by 8 m (26ft) at a medium 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, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in saline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

Australasia - eastern New Guinea, Bismarck Island, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Seed Edible Uses: Seed[324 , 335 , 658 ]. The seed kernel inside the hard shell inside the fruit is about 30mm by 15 - 20mm wide[658 ]. Young leaves - cooked and eaten as a vegetable[324 ].

Medicinal Uses

Antiinflammatory Antitussive Stomachic Urinary The bark is used in the treatment of stomach ailments and gonorrhoea[339 ]. Sap from the bark has been used for treating ciguatera poisoning, coughs, and urinary infections[312 ]. The leaves are used to treat inflammation of the ear and headaches[312 ].

Known Hazards

None known