Pequi
Caryocar brasiliense
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Description
Pequi is a small to medium-sized tree native to the Brazilian Cerrado, a tropical savanna ecoregion. It plays a crucial role in agroecology as a keystone species, supporting biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. The tree is well-adapted to nutrient-poor, acidic soils and the seasonal climate of the region. Its deep roots contribute to soil stabilization and water retention, making it valuable for regenerative agriculture. Pequi trees are often integrated into food forests as canopy or sub-canopy layers, providing habitat and food for wildlife, including birds and insects. Traditionally, Pequi has been used in Brazilian cuisine and medicine, with its fruit being a staple in local diets. It is often planted alongside nitrogen-fixing species like Acacia to enhance soil fertility and with flowering plants to attract pollinators.
Growing Details
Pequi trees require well-drained, sandy to loamy soils with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Before planting, incorporate organic matter to improve soil structure. Mulching with organic materials helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion planting with legumes like Acacia can enhance soil fertility. Avoid planting in waterlogged areas. Harvest fruits when they naturally fall from the tree, typically between January and March. Store harvested fruits in a cool, dry place to extend shelf life.
Tags
Keystone Specie
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Fire Wood
Building Wood
Windbreak
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Visual Appeal
Oil
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Caryocar brasiliense</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 Brazilian Cerrado
applicable geo region: South America
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of October for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of January for 90 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(4/5)
edible uses: The fruit of the Pequi tree is consumed both raw and cooked. It is commonly used in traditional dishes such as rice and chicken stews. The pulp and oil extracted from the fruit are rich in vitamins A and E and have a unique, strong flavor. The fruit is typically harvested from January to March, and care must be taken to avoid the hard spines beneath the pulp.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Pequi oil is used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is applied topically to treat skin conditions and consumed to support cardiovascular health. The oil is also used to alleviate respiratory issues and improve skin elasticity.
health concerns: The fruit contains hard spines beneath the pulp, which can be hazardous if not handled carefully. It is important to educate consumers on proper handling and preparation methods.
other uses: The wood of the Pequi tree is durable and used for construction and making tools. In agroforestry systems, Pequi provides shade and shelter, contributing to microclimate regulation.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Caryocar brasiliense
common names: Pequi; Souari Nut; Pequiรก
family: Caryocaraceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Caryocar
Growing Conditions
area needed: 10.0 m
spacing: 8.0 m
growing difficulty: High
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 27ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: High
hardness:
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(10/10)
first harvest: 5 years
life span: 50 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Slow
max height: 10.0 m
max width: 8.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Acid
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Pequi trees require well-drained, sandy to loamy soils with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Before planting, incorporate organic matter to improve soil structure. Mulching with organic materials helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion planting with legumes like Acacia can enhance soil fertility. Avoid planting in waterlogged areas. Harvest fruits when they naturally fall from the tree, typically between January and March. Store harvested fruits in a cool, dry place to extend shelf life.
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include fruit flies and caterpillars. Introduce beneficial insects such as parasitic wasps to control caterpillar populations. Planting marigolds nearby can help repel nematodes. Use neem oil as an organic spray to manage fruit flies. Regular monitoring and maintaining biodiversity in the planting area can help prevent pest outbreaks.
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