SafePlants

Brazil Nut Tree (Bertholletia excelsa)

The Brazil nut tree, scientifically known as Bertholletia excelsa, is renowned for its height and economically important seeds. It is the sole species within the genus Bertholletia.

Considerations for Pets

• The Brazil nut tree produces large, woody fruits containing 15-25 seeds (Brazil nuts). These seeds could pose a choking hazard, particularly for smaller animals.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Bertholletia excelsa
• Common Names: Brazil nut tree, Brazil nut, Para Nut, Cream Nuts, Castanha
• Family: Lecythidaceae
• Kingdom: (Implied: Plantae)
• Synonyms: Caryocar tomentosum, Caryocar tuberculosum, Pekea tuberculosa

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the Amazon rainforest in the Guianas, Venezuela, Brazil, eastern Colombia, eastern Peru, and Ecuador.
• Found in the Amazon Basin of South America.

Ecological Role

• Deforestation has caused major declines in the Brazil nut tree population.
• Seed predation by macaws is a factor influencing the tree's ecology.

Morphological Characteristics

• A very large tree, typically reaching 40-60 meters (over 160 feet) in height.
• The trunk is straight for 20 meters or more, with a diameter ranging from 2 to 4 meters.
• The bark is grey-brown, approximately 1.5 cm thick, and resinous.
• Produces large, woody fruits.

Uses

• The edible seeds, known as Brazil nuts, are commercially harvested.
• Brazil nut oil, extracted from the seeds, is used in skin and hair care products.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Subject to seed predation by Macaws.

Further Information

• Raintree's rainforest Tropical Plant Database
• Eden Project