Pyrularia pubera, commonly known as buffalo nut or elfinwood, is a flowering plant species belonging to the family Santalaceae. It is a small deciduous tree or shrub native to the eastern United States and parts of Canada.
The bark of Pyrularia pubera is smooth and grayish-brown in color, while the branches are slender and often appear twisted. The leaves are opposite, simple, and about 3–6 inches long, with an elliptical or lance-shaped outline. They are dark green and glossy on the upper side, but paler and slightly hairy beneath.
The plant produces small, fragrant flowers that are greenish-white in color and arranged in loose clusters. These flowers give way to unique fruits, often referred to as "buffalo nuts" due to their resemblance to buffalo testicles. The fruits are spherical, about 1–2 inches in diameter, and covered with a rough, bumpy, brownish-green skin. When mature, they split open to reveal waxy white or pale yellow seeds, which are oily and edible.
Pyrularia pubera is primarily found in forests, particularly in moist or shady areas. It is a hemiparasitic species, meaning it obtains nutrients from the roots of surrounding trees through specialized structures called "haustoria." This peculiar adaptation enables it to establish in diverse habitats and often associate with certain tree species.
Although not extensively utilized by humans, the seeds of Pyrularia pubera are occasionally consumed by animals, such as birds and squirrels. Furthermore, certain Native American tribes have historically employed various parts of the plant for medicinal purposes, including treating fevers, headaches, and throat ailments.
Overall, Pyrularia pubera is an intriguing plant species renowned for its
