The first species of this genus (oiti coroia) produces an irregular drupe, of which the kernel is covered with a sweet fecula, somewhat aromatic, pleasant, nutritive. It is large enough to satisfy one person. It is sold in the markets, and by some individuals it is now cultivated.
The second species (oiti da praia) produces an oval or oblong drupe, very little smaller than a hen’s egg; it is yellow at the period of maturation; the kernel is covered with a sweet, aromatic, and nutritive pulp.
The third species (oiticica) is peculiar to the Sertoens, where it grows upon the borders of rivers and rivulets. It rises to the height of 50 or 60 feet; its branches are so diffuse, and double so much, that they nearly reach the ground, forming a spacious cope. The fruit is an oblong drupe of two inches or more in length, and of half an inch in thickness; it always retains its green colour, even when ripe. The kernel is not hard like the kernels of the two preceding species, but it is ligneous and flexible, and can easily be broken; it is covered with a layer of astringent pulp. The almond is a seed composed of two oily cotyledons of a disagreeable taste, but abounding with an oil, of which some use is now made.
Gendiroba or Andiroba, Feuillea cordifolia;—Lin.
This is of the natural order of cucurbitaceous plants; the seeds are very oily, and from them oil is easily extracted, which, as well as that of the cocos nucifera, has the property of coagulating. I have made good soap from it even with potash, depriving it of carbonic acid by means of virgin lime.
Caroba, Kordelestris symphilitica;—Arrud. Cent. Plant. Pern. Bignonia copaia; Aublet. Guien.
Caroba miuda, or casco de cavallo, Kordelestris undulata;—Arrud. Cent. Plant. Pern.
These two species possess antivenereal properties, and are particularly serviceable against the infection which is called bobas, yaws.
Barbatimam, Mimosa virginalis;—Arrud. Cent. Plant. Pern.