Tropical Plant "Cola nut"
Cola acuminate

Characteristics - The cola nut is an exotic fruit bearer, occasionally cultivated in the domestic orchards of Brazil, mainly in the tropical regions, that had many African slaves, during 19th century. It originated in tropical Africa and was introduced into the country, during the colonial period, by the slaves. It is an evergreen, 8-12 m tall. Leaves simple, coriaceous, glabrous, 9-25 cm long. Inflorescences in short, axillary racemes, with aromatic flowers, form in August and September. Fruits are of the follicle type, woody, coriaceous, an irregular surface, dehiscent, green, ripening in the summer, containing several angular seeds, rich in caffeine.

Uses - The seeds (nuts) are consumed in natura as stimulants and in the preparation of carbonated soft drinks.

Propagation - By seeds.