Pili Nut
Canarium ovatum
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Description
The Pili Nut tree (Canarium ovatum) is a tropical evergreen tree native to the Philippines, reaching heights of up to 20 meters. It plays a crucial role in agroecology and regenerative agriculture as a mid-canopy layer in food forests, providing shade and habitat for understory plants and wildlife. Its deep root system aids in soil stabilization and water retention, making it valuable for erosion control and reforestation projects. The tree is traditionally used in the Philippines not only for its nutritious nuts but also for its wood and resin. Pili Nut trees are often planted alongside nitrogen-fixing species like Gliricidia sepium to enhance soil fertility and with aromatic herbs such as lemongrass to deter pests. Its resilience to pests and diseases reduces the need for chemical inputs, aligning with sustainable agricultural practices.
Growing Details
Pili Nut trees thrive in well-drained, loamy soils but can adapt to sandy and clay soils. Prior to planting, enrich the soil with organic compost to improve fertility. Mulching with organic materials such as coconut husks or rice straw helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion planting with nitrogen-fixing trees like Gliricidia sepium enhances soil fertility. Common mistakes include overwatering and poor drainage, which can lead to root rot. Harvest nuts when they fall naturally from t
Edible Parts
Fruit
Seed
Oil
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Fire Wood
Building Wood
Windbreak
Erosion Preventing
Visual Appeal
High Protein
Oil
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Canarium ovatum</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to the Philippines
applicable geo region: Southeast Asia
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of May for 60 days
Harvest:
beginning
of September for 90 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(5/5)
edible uses: The nuts of the Pili Nut tree are highly nutritious, rich in healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals. They can be eaten raw, roasted, or used in baking and confectionery. The nuts are often processed into oil, which is used for cooking and as a salad dressing. Additionally, the nuts can be ground into a paste similar to nut butter. The nuts are typically harvested from September to November, and proper drying is essential to prevent mold growth during storage.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Pili nuts are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and are used in traditional medicine to support digestive health and boost energy levels. The oil extracted from the nuts is rich in antioxidants and is sometimes used in skin care products for its moisturizing properties. It is important to note that individuals with nut allergies should exercise caution when consuming Pili nuts.
health concerns: Individuals with nut allergies should avoid consuming Pili nuts.
other uses: The wood of the Pili Nut tree is durable and used for construction and furniture making. The tree also produces a resin that can be used as a varnish or adhesive. Additionally, the tree's canopy provides shade, making it a valuable component in agroforestry systems.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Canarium ovatum
common names: Pili Nut; Philippine Nut; Java Almond
family: Burseraceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Canarium
Growing Conditions
area needed: 10.0 m
spacing: 8.0 m
growing difficulty: Medium
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 28ยฐC / 18ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: High
humidity: High
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: High
hardness:
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(10/10)
first harvest: 5 years
life span: 100 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 20.0 m
max width: 10.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Pili Nut trees thrive in well-drained, loamy soils but can adapt to sandy and clay soils. Prior to planting, enrich the soil with organic compost to improve fertility. Mulching with organic materials such as coconut husks or rice straw helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion planting with nitrogen-fixing trees like Gliricidia sepium enhances soil fertility. Common mistakes include overwatering and poor drainage, which can lead to root rot. Harvest nuts when they fall naturally from t
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include scale insects and caterpillars. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control scale populations. Parasitic wasps can help manage caterpillar infestations. Planting aromatic herbs such as lemongrass and basil nearby can deter pests. Organic neem oil sprays are effective against a variety of pests.
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