Butia capitata
Other common names
Pindo Palm
Origin of the species name
Butia: a Portuguese corruption of an aboriginal term meaning "spiny"; capitata: is Latin, meaning "with a dense head" referring to the seed heads.
Family
Arecaceae
Date planted
April 2011
Lifespan
Trees of this species live around 80 years.
General description
This is a small to medium-sized palm. It features pale blue-green or blue-grey recurving fronds which grow out of a stout, heavily textured trunk. The edible fruits are yellowish or reddish. Height 6m Spread 4m.
Natural distribution and habitat
The species is native to Brazil and Uruguay where it grows in savannahs and deciduous forest, with alternating wet and dry seasons often with many thousands of palms being present in the one area. This species tolerates frost, wind-exposure and drought, so is well suited to horticulture beyond the usual range for palms.
Conservation status
It is not a rare or threatened species.
Planting pattern
Forest 59 is a steep site planted in lines following the contours.
Uses
The fruit can be eaten raw but is also used to make jelly and wine, hence the pindo is commonly called the jelly palm. The seed contains up to 45% of an edible oil, it is used mainly for margarines. The pith of the stem can be made into bread.
Further reading
Jones, D (1995) Palms Throughout the World. Smithsonian Books.