Orbignya phalerata

Orbignya phalerata, also known as the babassu palm, is a tall palm tree native to northeastern Brazil. This species is significant for its hard-shelled nuts, which contain kernels rich in babassu oil. This oil is similar to coconut oil and is used in food, fuel, lubricants, soaps, and cosmetics.1

The babassu palm offers numerous uses beyond its oil. Its fruit can be eaten, and its stalks serve as timber. The leaves are used for roofing, partitions, and crafting baskets. A liquid from the fruit stalk can be fermented into a local alcoholic beverage, and fibers from the fruit's outer layer have various applications. The inner layer of the fruit is used to make buttons.1

Ecologically, Orbignya phalerata contributes significantly to soil fertility by adding large amounts of dry matter that is recycled back into the soil.2