Common Name: Araca Roxo

General Information

Araca roxo is a semi-deciduous, large shrub or small tree with a dense, globose crown; it can grow 3 - 5 metres tall. The twisted bole is more or less cylindrical and about 15 - 30cm in diameter[, ].
The edible fruit is sometimes gathered from the wild for local use, though it is not widely appreciated[]. The tree is suitable for street planting in narrow streets and under power cables[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

Range

S. America - eastern, central and northeastern Brazil.

Habitat

Semideciduous forests in both primary and secondary formations, growing most commonly on deep, well-drained, clay soils. Also found as an isolated specimen in pastures and other open areas[].

Properties

Edibility Rating
Medicinal Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Semi-deciduous Tree
Height	4.00 m
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Succeeds in full sun and in dappled shade[]. Established plants are drought tolerant[].

Edible Uses

Fruit - raw[]. A succulent pulp with an acidic flavour[]. It can have a laxative effect[]. The brown, globose fruit is around 3cm in diameter[, ].

Medicinal

The fruit is laxative[].

Other Uses

The bark has a high tannin content[].

The wood is medium-textured, straight-grained, heavy, hard, with moderate mechanical properties and not very durable. It can be used for light cabinet making, boxes, tool handles, agricultural utensils etc[].
The wood is used for fuel and to make charcoal[].

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a sunny position in a nursery seedbed. A moderate germination rate can be expected, with the seed sprouting within 21 - 28 days[].

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