Tropical Plant "Turu palm"
Oenocarpus bacaba

Characteristics - The turu palm is not a cultivated fruit bearer, however it is abundant in its natural habitat in the states of Acre, Amazonas and Para in areas of dry land tropical forest. It is a solitary palm, 7-20 in tall. The caulis is 15-25 cm in diameter ,with a short crown-shaft at the apex. Leaves pinnate, 3-5 m long, 10-15 concurrently; with pinnae irregularly distributed on the rachis, in groups of 2-9, arranged on different planes. Inflorescences infrafoliar with 103-245 rachis. Fruits have a thin, carnose mesocarp.

Uses - The fruits are consumed in their natural state, as 'bacaba wine'. The pulp is separated from the fruit (seed) and whipped with water. It is a high calorie drink, routinely consumed in the Amazon region. It is similar to 'assai wine'.

Propagation - Propagated by seeds.