Description
Astrocaryum paramaca (also called Paramaca palm, among many other common names) is a species of palm tree native to the Amazon rainforest in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela. It typically grows in lowland rainforest, but can also be found in seasonally flooded areas. It is a large palm, growing up to 25 m tall, with a trunk up to 40 cm in diameter.
Uses & Benefits
Astrocaryum paramaca is used for its edible fruits, oil, and fiber. The oil is used in cooking and cosmetics, while the fiber is used for making rope and other items. The fruits are eaten fresh or dried and used in a variety of dishes.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Astrocaryum paramaca flowers are small, yellow-green, and inconspicuous. The seed is a nut enclosed in a cup-like structure called an involucre. The seedlings are small and have a single, long, pointed leaf.
Cultivation and Propagation
Astrocaryum paramaca is a slow-growing palm that can reach up to 10 m in height. It is best grown in full sun and in well-drained soil. Propagation is by seed, which should be sown in a warm, humid environment. The seedlings should be kept moist and in a bright, sunny location.