Oil Nut, Buffalo nut

Pyrularia pubera

Physical Characteristics

Pyrularia pubera is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3.5 m (11ft 6in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from May to June. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required).. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - W. Vancouver to Alabama.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Oil Edible Uses: Oil Fruit[2, 46, 61]. Caution is advised since the fruit is said to be permeated with an acrid oil[1, 43]. The pear-shaped fruit is about 25mm long[200]. An edible oil is obtained from the seed[105]. Is this different from the acrid poisonous oil of the fruit?[K]

Medicinal Uses

Emetic Salve The plant has been used as a salve on old sores[257]. The seed has been chewed to cause vomiting in the treatment of colic[257].

Known Hazards

The whole plant, especially the fruit, contains an acrid poisonous oil[43].