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A TEXTBOOK OF THEORETICAL BOTANY 



Fig. 1996. — Attalea exceha. Brazil. 



in the making of mats and baskets. The petioles serve for fencing, for 

 broom handles and for many domestic articles. The apex of the stem is 

 edible and is used both as a vegetable and also in the preparation of pickles 

 and preserves. The inflorescence can be tapped to produce a sugary liquid 

 from which toddy can be made. If this fermented drink is distilled a strong 

 spirit known as arrack is produced. Further fermentation yields vinegar. 

 The fruit is particularly valuable. When young it contains a considerable 

 amount of a sweet milky liquid, but this decreases as the nut matures. The 

 endosperm is eaten and a milk is expressed from it, which can be used as a 

 flavouring. By pressure or by boiling coconut oil is obtained. The dried 

 endosperm is known as Copra and is used very largely in the preparation 

 of soaps and margarine. The desiccated endosperm is used in confectionery. 

 The outer fibrous husk contains stout fibres which are used in stufiing and 



