Para Rubber Tree (Hevea brasiliensis)

Family: Euphorbiaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Known as the most important rubber-producing tree worldwide, Hevea brasiliensis or commonly known as para rubber tree, is a deciduous tree growing up to 20 m in height with smooth and gray bark, dark green leaves, pale yellow flowers, and large capsule fruits. It is a tropical plant native to the Amazon in Brazil but can be found in other locations across South America, Africa, and Asia.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Seed - cooked. Although poisonous, the seeds are a staple food of local peoples in the jungle. The seed needs to be treated by soaking for a prolonged period or boiling them to destroy the cyanic poisons. The seeds contain 40 - 50% oil. — Although poisonous, the seeds are a staple food of local peoples in the jungle.; The seed needs to be treated by soaking for a prolonged period or boiling them to destroy the cyanic poisons.; The seeds contain 40 - 50% oil.; This is suitable for use as food.

Habitat & North American Range

Along river banks in rainforests. Rainforest, often in periodically flooded areas, but larger trees are found on the well-drained plateaux. In its natural habitat, it forms part of the middle storey of the tropical forest. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)