Appendix B

Edible and Medicinal Plants

Sugar palm

Sugar palm
Arenga pinnata

Description: This tree grows about 15 meters (45 feet) high and has huge leaves up to 6 meters (18 feet) long. Needlelike structures stick out of the bases of the leaves. Flowers grow below the leaves and form large conspicuous dusters from which the fruits grow.

Habitat and Distribution: This palm is native to the East Indies but has been planted in many parts of the tropics. It can be found at the margins of forests.

Edible Parts: The chief use of this palm is for sugar. However, its seeds and the tip of its stems are a survival food. Bruise a young flower stalk with a stone or similar object and collect the juice as it comes out. It is an excellent source of sugar. Boil the seeds. Use the tip of the stems as a vegetable.

Other Uses: The shaggy material at the base of the leaves makes an excellent rope, as it is strong and resists decay.

CAUTION

The flesh covering the seeds may cause dermatitis.

Survival index

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