Leopoldinia piassaba

Abstract

This palm with its distinctive fibers hanging down the trunk is also confined to the Rio Negro Basin, where it occurs inland from rivers in patches that may flood periodically and where the groundwater is close to the surface. The hanging fibers, which are remnants of leaf sheaths, are gathered in the wild to be made into brooms. Formerly the tough fibers were also made into ropes, especially for boats because they float and are strong. The fronds are occasionally used for thatch and the fruits are sometimes eaten.