Euterpe precatoria

Abstract

Another widespread representative of the genus, E. precatoria is similar in many respects to E. oleracea except that the former also occurs in upland forests whereas the latter is generally found along the margins of streams and rivers. Both produce highly-sought after fruits for making juice. Some populations of E. precatoria allegedly bear fruits with higher levels of antioxidants than E. oleracea. Oil is obtained from the fruit pulp for cooking and for use as a hair conditioner. Indeed, over a dozen medicinal uses have been attributed to this palm. In addition to palmito, the palm is also used to furnish poles for house construction.