By: Ralph Sams

The chambira palm is essential to all aspects of the lives of people of the Amazon. It is a large spiny palm found in many regions of Amazonia. It belongs to the family, Arecaceae. Its Latin name is Astrocaryum chambira. The vernacular or local name is just Chambira.
Chambira is easy to grow and will grow from discarded seeds, but is usually planted. Seed germination should be spaced at least six meters apart, and needs full sun. The trunk is very spiny to ward away predators. A climbing tree is usually planted next to the chambira in order to safely harvest the fruit. It grows best in non-flooding areas.
Chambira has many uses by the natives. The crown shaft and the young fronds are used to make an excellent fiber that can be used for string, rope, handbags (called jikra), or any number of other crafts. The fibers are very commonly used to make clothing as well as the hammocks that the natives sleep in. To prepare the leaves, they must be separated and then dried before they can be used to turn into string.
Another part commonly used is the trunk. It is a sturdy wood and is commonly used to build the plank floors of houses. The fruit is also eaten by animals and humans.
This plant is used in every aspect of the native’s lives and is an essential resource that is used and appreciated by the peoples of the Amazon. My sources for this article were our wonderful guides Celso, Ricardo, and Willy. My many thanks for their knowledge and their willingness to share it.