Caryodendron orinocense aka Tacaynut

Caryodendron orinocense is an evergreen tree in the Euphorbiaceae family. Its common names include taccy nut and nuez de Barinas. Its native range runs from Venezuela through Colombia to Ecuador. It forms part of the canopy in dense rain forests. It grows from sea level to 7,546 feet [2,300 metres]. People gather its nuts from wild trees and grow it as a crop. Local markets sell the seeds in parts of its range.

Cultivated trees reach about 49–82 feet [15–25 metres] tall. PFAF also lists a spread of 82 feet [25 metres]. Wild trees can reach 131 feet [40 metres]. Trees in cultivation develop a broad, rounded crown. Wild trees have a smaller, dense crown with a flat top. The bark yields latex that people use as lamp fuel. Growth is fast. Trees tend to start fruiting in their seventh year. At that stage, they stand about 23 feet [7 metres] tall. Wind carries pollen between flowers, and the tree is not self-fertile.

Give established trees full sun and moist, well-drained soil. They grow in sandy, loamy, and clay soils. They prefer acidic ground, with a pH of 5–6. They tolerate a few months of mild drought and brief waterlogging. The best daytime temperatures fall between 20 and 29°C. Preferred annual rainfall ranges from 1,200 to 3,000 millimetres. PFAF lists USDA zones 10–12. Young seedlings need shade during their first year. Plant them into sun at the next rainy season. Fresh seed is important, since it soon loses viability. Sow it within ten days of harvest where possible.

The seeds provide food and oil. Remove the leathery seed coat before eating the kernels. They have a flavour that recalls hazelnuts. People eat them raw, roasted, or fried. Ground kernels also go into drinks and sweets. Moist storage and shell damage can make the oil turn rancid. Drying and roasting help prepare nuts for longer sealed storage. Both PFAF and Useful Tropical Plants report no known hazards. This does not establish safety for every use or for pets.

Growers use this tree to shade coffee and cacao crops. Oil from the seeds and shells also serves as lamp fuel. People make furniture and charcoal from the wood. The wood has limited durability and commercial value. PFAF records medicinal use of nuts and oil for lung and skin complaints. That account does not establish their effectiveness as treatment.