Tropical Plant "Wooly jelly palm"
Butia eriospatha

Characteristics – The wooly jelly palm is a fruit bearer widely cultivated in the mountainous region of the south (Southern Plateau) where it is native to the ‘pine forests’ (Araucaria forests) and still of frequent occurrence. It is a solitary palm, 4-5 m tall. The ringed caulis is about 40 cm in diameter. There are 20-22 leaves concurrent, with an indistinct sheath and petiole. Pinnae, about 77-92 on each side, are regularly distributed and positioned obliquely, forming V. Inflorescences interfoliar have 20-125 rachises. Fruits have a succulent, fiberless pulp, with a pleasant, acidic-sweet, flavor. It can easily be differentiated from Butia adorata by the ferruginous tomenta on the peduncular bract.

Uses – The fruits are consumed in natura and greatly appreciated in the region.

Propagation – Propagated by seeds.