Jacaratia spinosa, Carica spinosa

Wild Mango, Mamoeiro-bravo
Family: Caricaceae
Origin: South America
Small tree 10-20 ft

Ethnomedical plant.
Plants marked as ethnomedical and/or described as medicinal, are not offered as medicine but rather as ornamentals or plant collectibles.
Ethnomedical statements / products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We urge all customers to consult a physician before using any supplements, herbals or medicines advertised here or elsewhere.

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:

Carica papaya (Papaya)
Carica pentagona (Champagne Fruit, Babaco)
Ficus carica (Fig Tree, Brevo)

Link to this plant:

https://toptropicals.com/catalog/uid/jacaratia_spinosa.htm