

V 



FRUITS OF THE MACAUBA PALM. 



In the vicinity of towns many of the palms are cut to 

 obtain the tender, white terminal bud, which is boiled and 

 eaten as a vegetable. The fruit clusters are very large, 

 sometimes weighing 60 or 70 pounds. Surrounding the hard 

 seed in the center of each fruit is a thick layer of white, 

 woody flesh which is very nutritious. Because of its in- 

 sipid flavor it is not commonly eaten by the natives, but 

 is used to fatten hogs with, for which purpose it is con- 

 sidered excellent. It also contains an oil, which is some- 

 times expressed in small quantities and used for lubri- 

 cating. Photo No. 1294, by Brazilian Expedition, taken at 

 Lavras, Minas Geraes, Jan. 22, 1914. 



