Ubussu (Manicaria saccifera)

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

Commonly found in South America, Manicaria saccifera or commonly known as Ubussu is an evergreen, large, single-stemmed palm of up to 10 m tall and 15 - 20 cm stem diameter. It is used medicinally to treat asthma, cough, thrush, and diarrhea. Young leaves are cooked as a vegetable but has to be boiled for 15 minutes to destroy harmful glucosides. The roots are cooked as well; it has high carbohydrate content.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

An edible oil is obtained from the seeds. The liquid endosperm of unripe fruits is drunk. The fruit is 4 - 6cm in diameter. Sago is obtained from the starchy stems. — An edible oil is obtained from the seeds.; The liquid endosperm of unripe fruits is drunk.; The fruit is 4 - 6cm in diameter.; Sago is obtained from the starchy stems.

Habitat & North American Range

Swampy areas. Lowland forest, generally in flooded areas and usually near the sea, though occasionally extending further inland and ascending to 1,200 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)