Parmentiera edulis (Guajilote)

Parmentiera edulis, Parmentiera aculeata, Guajilote, Cuachilote, Guahalote, Candle Tree, Cucumber Tree

Botanical names: Parmentiera edulis, Parmentiera aculeata

Common names: Guajilote, Cuachilote, Guahalote, Candle Tree, Cucumber Tree

Family: Bignoniaceae

Origin: Mexico and Guatemala

USDA Zone: 9-11?

This highly ornamental tree is due to the interesting shape of its leaves and the greenish-cream flowers that grow directly from the stem or branch tips. The fibrous, ridged, fruit is 12" long and 2" wide. It resembles a greenish-yellow cucumber, it is juicy with a sweet flavor similar to sugar cane. Eaten either raw or cooked. The fruit is sometimes made into pickles or preserves. It is reported to be a good remedy for colds, and the roots are used as a diuretic. The tree is adapted to a wide range of climatic conditions but is most frequently found in high-rainfall forests where it grows spontaneously.

See our video about Candle Tree.