wacapou (Vouacapoua americana)

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

Vouacapoua americana is a slender, semi deciduous tree growing usually about 35 m tall. It has a roundish crown and a straight, cylindrical, not buttressed trunk that can be up to 90 cm in diameter. It is commonly grown throughout northern South America and currently threatened by overexploitation. Medicinally, the plant is used for body aches, malaria, and fevers. No plant part is edible.

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

Primary rainforests, mainly in areas that are not seasonally inundated. Found especially on forested slopes. (Zone 10)