Pau jacaré - alligator stick (Piptadenia gonoacantha)

Family: Fabaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Piptadenia gonoacantha is a fast-growing, semi deciduous tree characterized by an open and ellipsoidal crown. It can be found in South America. Belonging in the legume family, it is capable of fixing atmospheric nitrogen due to its symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria that form root nodules. The wood is moderately heavy, hard, and moderately resistant to termites.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

None known. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Atlantic rainforest, most commonly along the coastal plain, favouring open and secondary growth areas, growing in both rich and poor soils. (Zone 10)