Manilkara bidentata, Mimusops balata, Achras balata

Large, and very long lived tropical tree native to wet regions. The leaves are alternate, elliptical, entire, and 10-20 cm long. The flowers are white, and are produced at the beginning of the rainy season. The fruit is a yellow berry, 3-5 cm in diameter. Fruits are edible and eaten fresh, the more common use of the tree is as a commercial timber.

The wood is very poisonous. This species yields a gutta-percha. The sap (balata) becomes solid and somewhat crumbling at ordinary temperature, it softens at 120.2F, and can be molded like gutta-percha.

Mascagnia lilacina

Mascagnia lilacina (Lilac Orchid Vine) is a native Mexican plant, growing as an evergreen vine in USDA Zones 9-11. It is a deciduous to evergreen creeper with woody stems that can reach up to 30 ft in warm climates. It produces beautiful, five-petaled blue, lavender, or purple flowers in late summer to fall. The flowers are bell-shaped and are usually around 1/2 inch across. It also produces decorative seedpods, although these are inedible.

Lilac Orchid Vine is not just a showy plant. It also attracts many butterflies and hummingbirds, making it an important part of the local wildlife garden. This perennial vine can be grown in full sun, semi-shade, or any type of soil with regular or moderate water needs. However, it can cause skin irritation due to its small hairs, so it is best to handle them with gloves.

For those living in colder regions, Lilac Orchid Vine can be grown in a pot and kept indoors. This plant thrives well in USDA Zones 9-11. To make sure your Lilac Orchid Vine is healthy, periodically check its soil for moisture content. Water your vine when the soil is dry but not cracked. If your vine is indoors, you should prune it regularly to ensure it does not become unmanageable.

You can also fertilize your Lilac Orchid Vine in the spring with a slow-release, water-soluble fertilizer. This will keep your vine healthy and flowering. With the right care and maintenance, this delicate, beautiful vine can bring a unique touch of color to any home or garden.

Mesua ferrea

Stunning ornamental tree with bright red young leaves which gives the tree unforgettable appearance. White flowers with yellow centers similar to Fried Egg Tree flowers (Onchoba spinosa). In tropics, it grows into a large evergreen tree, often buttressed at the base; with trunk up to 3 feet in diameter. The wood of Mesua ferrea is very heavy, it is used for railroad ties and building needs. Its resin is slightly poisonous, but many parts have medicinal properties. Parts Used: Flower buds, flowers, fruit, seed, root, bark, oil. Dried flower: astringent stomachic, carminative, cardiotonic, blood tonic. Leaf: external use for wound healing. Propagation: Seeds or cuttings.

Monadenium coccineum, Euphorbia neococcinea

Monadenium guentheri