Fustic Tree (Maclura tinctoria)

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

Fustic Tree or Maclura tinctoria is a yellow dye producing tree that can be found in South America. The yellow dye, known as fustic, is used for coloring khaki fabric for military apparels. The tree usually grows about 15 - 30 m tall with a dense and spreading crown. The bole is straight and cylindrical, and can be up to 60 cm in diameter. The leaves are oval and with teeth along the edge.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweet tasting pulp. — A succulent, sweet tasting pulp.; The fruit is about 2cm in diameter.

Habitat & North American Range

Moist or usually dry thickets or forest in the tierra caliente, common in the plains and lowlands of Guatemala. Found in a wide range of forest formations in Brazil, especially in secondary growth. (Zone 10)