Tropical Plant "Southern jelly palm"
Butia odorata

Characteristics -The southern jelly palm is cultivated in domestic orchards and of frequent occurence in its natural habitat, the low shrubby growth of the 'restinga' or forested sand dunes near the coast in Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul. Also found in the Central Basin of the latter state It is a solitary palm, erect, 3-6 m tall.The stem is ringed by persistent leaf bases. There are 7-32 leaves with indistinct sheath and petiole. Margins are toothed. There are 35-60 pinnae on each side, regularly distributed and positioned to form a V. Inflorescences are interfoliar with 65-73 rachis. Fruits have a fibrous and succulent pulp with an acidic flavor.

Uses -The fruits are consumed 'au naturel' as juice and greatly appreciated.

Propagation -Propagated by seeds.