Ecuador laurel (Cordia alliodora)

Family: Boraginaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

A fast-growing tropical tree that grows up to 12 m in height, Cypre or Cordia alliodora has a compact crown and straight stem, and is capable of self-pruning. The trunk is smooth and light coloured. Other common names are Ecuador laurel and Spanish elm. The ellipsoid fruits are edible but not scrumptious. The bark is used as condiment. The leaves are used medicinally particularly in the treatment of catarrh and various lung ailments.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Bark/Inner Bark

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The fruits are edible. Not very tasty. The ellipsoid fruit is 5 - 7mm long and about 2mm wide. The bark is used as a condiment. — The fruits are edible.; The ellipsoid fruit is 5 - 7mm long and about 2mm wide.; The bark is used as a condiment.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry and wet forest. A pioneer plant, it is found in a wide range of habitats from sea level up to 1,000 metres, occasionally to 2,000 metres. (Zone 10)