African Oil Palm (Elaeis guineensis)

Family: Arecaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (5/5)

Elaeis guineensis or commonly known as African Oil Palm is native to west and southwest Africa. It is single-stemmed that grows up to 20 - 30 m in height and up to 75 cm in trunk diameter. The leaves are pinnate and dark green. The small flowers form into dense clusters. Palm fruit is reddish and grows in large bunches. The plant has a wide range of traditional medicinal uses.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Sap/Syrup

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

richness to soups and sauces. — Edible portion: Seeds, Cabbage, Fruit, Palm heart, Sap, Vegetable, Seeds - oil.; Oil - two types of oil are obtained from the plant.; Palm oil is obtained from the fruit whilst palm kernel oil is obtained from the seed.; They are obtained in a volume ratio of approximately 9 : 1.

Habitat & North American Range

More or less open forest in moist, sandy soils that are often poorly drained. Often found along the edges of rivers. (Zone 10)