Allophylus edulis aka Chal Chal

Allophylus edulis belongs to the soapberry family, Sapindaceae. This South American species grows as a shrub or tree. Its range includes Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay and Argentina. It also reaches Guyana and French Guiana. Kew places it in the seasonally dry tropical biome. It grows in forests, including old forest and more open ground. In these sites, it favours moist soil with rocks.

The tree grows fast and sheds part of its foliage. Its dense crown has a rounded shape. Reported heights range from 20–33 feet [6–10 metres]. The source also lists a height of 26 feet [8 metres]. Its trunk often twists rather than growing straight. Trunk widths reach about 0.7–1 foot [0.2–0.3 metres]. This gives a small tree with a full crown. The supplied account gives no details of leaf shape or bark.

Bees pollinate the flowers, but the source gives no flowering season. People gather the fruit from wild trees for local use. They eat it raw and value its sweet taste. Each fruit has little flesh around its seed. People also ferment the fruit to make a wine-like drink. The tree provides food for native wildlife as well. The source reports no known hazards and no known medicinal uses. This does not establish the safety of every plant part.

In cultivation, the tree grows in sun or dappled shade. It prefers soil that stays moist. Fresh, ripe seed is the recommended means of propagation. Sow it in nursery beds or pots under partial shade. The source reports germination above 80 percent under these conditions. Seeds sprout in about 20–30 days. Move bed-grown seedlings into separate pots while still small. They can be ready for planting within six months of potting. The evidence gives no frost limits or pest and disease details.

Its fast growth makes it useful for starting woodland restoration. It also suits woodland gardens and planting along streets. The crown gives it value as an ornamental tree. Local people harvest its wood as well as its fruit. The wood is light, soft and somewhat flexible. Uses include cabinet work, poles and support stakes. It has useful strength but does not last well outdoors. People also burn the wood as fuel or make charcoal.