Paradise Nut. Brazilian Monkey Pot (Lecythis pisonis)

Family: Lecythidaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Lecythis pisonis is a deciduous Tree growing to 40 m (131ft) by 30 m (98ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The flowers are pollinated by Bees, insects. Suitable for: medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist or wet soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Rich in oil, they are similar to the Brazil nut in size and shape. — Rich in oil, they are similar to the Brazil nut in size and shape.; When ripe, the ivory-white kernels have a delicious flavour with a soft, almost creamy texture.; The seeds are said to be sweeter than Brazil nuts, with a superior flavour and easier to digest.; A very nutritious seed, containing about 63% oil or fat and 20% protein.

Habitat & North American Range

Fertile flood plains in the rainforest. Often found in groups, particularly in sunny positions on tops of hills. Found in all sorts of soil conditions. Usually found in dense primary forest, occasionally in more open situations. (Zone 10)