açaí
[key], tree, Euterpe oleracea, of the family Arecaceae (palm family) and its fruit, grown chiefly in Pará state in the Amazon
region of Brazil. The trees can grow to 60 ft (18 m). The small, round, dark purple fruits are
typically 1⁄2 in. (1.3
cm) in diameter. Initially collected from the wild, açaí is now cultivated on
plantations; the tree and other trees in the genus Euterpe are also grown for
hearts of palm. The pulp of the açaí fruit, botanically a drupe, or stone fruit,
is often sweetened and frozen. An important part of the local diet for centuries, it has since
2000 enjoyed growing popularity as a dietary supplement. Although studies have shown that the
fruit is a source of antioxidants, claims about specific health benefits are unproved.
The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2024, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.
See more Encyclopedia articles on: Plants
