There are still considerable differences in the concept of species delineation within this genus. We are following the treatment of Marquete R. & Mansano Vidal F., in O Gênero Casearia Jacq. No Brasil[] for all the Brazilian species in this database[].

Common Name: Pururuca

General Information

Casearia rupestris is a semi-deciduous tree with a fairly open, pyramidal crown[, ]. The tree grows 4 - 15 metres tall with a bole 15 - 30cm in diameter[, , ].
The edible fruits are gathered from the wild and consumed locally, though they are not widely appreciated[]. A very ornamental tree, especially when in bloom, and is used for planting along streets[].
Casearia rupestris has a very wide distribution, a large population, is not currently experiencing any major threats and no significant future threats have been identified. The plant is classified as 'Least Concern' in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(2019)[].

Known Hazards

The fruit is a capsute containing several seeds. Although the capsule of some species (and possibly also the seeds contained therein) is somewhat toxic, the fleshy aril surrounding the seeds is a different matter and in some species (such as this one) is often eaten and is considered to be perfectly wholesome[, ].

Botanical References

Range

S. America - central and eastern Brazil, Bolivia.

Habitat

More or less open positions in various forest types including rainforest, seasonal and gallery forest, often in secondary growth areas, also in savannah and wooded savannah, often on gentle slopes; at elevations up to 1,100 metres[, , ]

Properties

Conservation Status	Least Concern
Edibility Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Semi-deciduous Tree
Height	6.00 m
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Grows best in a sunny position, also growing well in dappled shade[, ]. Prefers a moist, fertile soil[]. Plants can tolerate periodic inundation of the soil[].

Edible Uses

Fruit - raw[]. The fruit is an ovoid capsule around 20 - 30mm long and 15 - 25mm wide, containing a number of seeds enclosed in a sticky, fleshy pulp with a sweet flavour[].

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

The wood is hard, moderately heavy, of medium uniform texture[]. It is moderately resistant to insects, but not very durable[]. It is used locally for rural construction and the manufacture of rustic furniture[].
The wood is used for fuel and charcoal[].

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as ripe[]. Sow in a sunny position in a nursery bed[]. Germination rates are low, the seed germination in 3 - 6 weeks[]. Pot up the seedlings when 5 - 6cm tall, planting out into their permanent positions when 6 - 8 months old[].

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