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The manchineel (Hippomane mancinella), often referred to as the death apple tree, is an extremely toxic plant native to the Caribbean and Florida regions. Dick Culbert/Flickr (CC By 2.0)Trees are often cherished for their beauty, the clean air they provide, their cooling shade, and their delicious fruits. However, the manchineel tree is an exception. This tree, notorious as the most perilous on Earth, thrives in sandy beaches and mangrove swamps across tropical areas from Florida to the Caribbean and parts of Central and South America. Getting too close to the manchineel tree can lead to severe consequences.
The Dangers of Manchineel Trees
The small, apple-resembling fruit of the manchineel tree is far from harmless — its toxic potency earned it the name 'manzanilla de la muerte' or little apple of death from Spanish conquistadors. This foreboding title might seem exaggerated, but historical accounts reveal that native tribes utilized its sap to poison arrows and taint the water sources of invading Spanish forces.
Although modern botanical records show no fatalities from consuming its deceptively harmless-looking fruit, biting into it would initially offer a sweet flavor, swiftly followed by excruciating pain. Unlike the temporary discomfort of eating a spicy pepper, the manchineel fruit induces extreme burning sensations and significant throat swelling. Inflammation and blistering around the mouth are likely, along with potentially serious gastrointestinal issues.
The hazards extend beyond ingestion. Merely brushing against its leaves or seeking shelter under the tree during rain can result in painful skin blisters. Exposure to its sap or smoke from burning its wood can cause temporary blindness if it comes into contact with the eyes.
The Experience of Eating Manchineel Fruit
Radiologist Nicola Strickland recounts in the journal BMJ her encounter with the manchineel fruit during a trip to Tobago, a Caribbean island.
The Trees Do Have a Fan
Despite its dangers, the tree isn't entirely malevolent. Its deep roots play a crucial role in preventing soil erosion. Additionally, it serves as a safe haven and food source for the garrobo, a striped iguana native to Central and South America. Unaffected by the tree's toxins, the garrobo thrives in its exclusive habitat.
A manchineel tree on the beach at Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica.
Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)How To Identify a Manchineel Tree
Although many manchineel trees are marked with a prominent red X or warning signs, it's essential to recognize their features when traveling in tropical regions. The tree's bark is reddish-gray, and its glossy leaves measure 2 to 4 inches in length and 1 to 3 inches in width, arranged alternately on the stem alongside clusters of small yellowish-green flowers.
Before grabbing what seems like a convenient snack or resting against a tree in a tropical setting, take a moment to ensure it's not the manchineel. While it contributes to air purification, provides shade, and bears fruit, this is one tree best admired from a distance.
Despite its hazards, the manchineel can be removed and its wood utilized. After burning the base from a safe distance, the fallen tree is left to dry in the sun until it's safe to handle. The resulting wood is crafted into stunning, one-of-a-kind furniture that's entirely safe to use.
