Jacaratia spinosa makes a good pioneer species due to its fast growth. The bizarre shape of the tree can be used to advantage in ornamental plantings.
The fruit needs to be cooked or, if eaten raw, the skin needs to be scored some time before consumption in order to release a copious latex. The wood is soft and fibrous and the taste has been compared to chestnuts. Its stem is used as a main ingredient in the manufacturing of candy.
Similar plants: