Genre: Acrocomia
Origin: Tropical America (Neotropics)
Crown diameter: 4.50 meters
Maximum height: 20 meters
Features: it is dangerous because it is covered with spines from the bottom of the trunk up to the growing point of the leaves, the spines can reach up to 15 cm.
Usage: the oil from the seeds and the pulp, are used in soap manufacture. The pulp is edible, either fresh or pressed. It is possible to extract oil, or if it is fermented, it is likely to obtain a kind of liquor called Coyol wine. The seed can be eaten roasted or cooked. The interior of the trunk is milled to obtain a fine and tasty flour. The heart of palm is taken from inside the tender shoots of the young palm trunk. It is protected with bark and immature leaves that have to be removed.
The fruit of the Coyol Palm – Photo by Philippe Chapuy
The seeds of the Coyol Palm – Photo by Philippe Chapuy
Photography and article written by Philippe Chapuy
