TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE ASSOCIATED WITH THE USE OF BUTIA PALM (Butia spp., Arecaceae) IN THE SOUTHERN OF BRAZIL

The Butia genus is widely distributed in the state of Rio Grande do Sul and it is established as an important part of this biodiversity. Due to its importance, a survey of traditional knowledge about this palm was conducted, focusing on uses of the plant and fruits. For this research, interviews were realized in rural communities of seven counties in the south of Rio Grande do Sul. Among the main uses of the butia palm related by the interviewers, the consumption of the fruit in natura, the juice production, liquors, jams, ice creams, cakes, candies and other desserts stand out. There are agro-industries producing natural butia palm juice as a new alternative to supplement the family income. Handicrafts are made with leaves and fruit pulp and sold in local fairs. This plant is also used as an ornamental in gardens and backyards. The interviewers recognize great variability among Butia fruits in terms of size, flavor, skin coloring, dehiscence and acidity. They report the intense interaction of birds and insects with the plant especially in the flowering and fruiting period. Along with the maintenance of the traditional uses of the plant by the population, innovative products from butia palm are being developed. There is a considerable potential to expand the uses of the Butia plant, mainly in cooking, sweet production, jam, juice and liquor. The visited communities showed a relationship of affection and respect for the Butia palms.