Paradise Tree (Simarouba glauca)

Family: Simaroubaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Simarouba glauca, otherwise known as Paradise Tree or Bitter Wood, is an evergreen, small to medium-sized tree growing up to 15 m in height, with a narrow crown, well-developed root system, and straight, cylindrical bole thank can be at least 30 cm in diameter. It can be found in Central America. It is shade tolerant. The leaves and bark are used in the treatment of malaria, fevers, and dysentery, to stop bleeding, and as a tonic.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweetish, and insipid. — The thick, white juicy flesh is slightly astringent, sweetish, and insipid.; The fruit closely resembles an olive, hence the local name 'aceituno' The fruit is eaten commonly, but is of inferior quality and not highly esteemed.; The oval fruits are mostly 15 - 20mm long.; The seeds contain 60 - 75% edible oil that can be extracted by conventional methods.

Habitat & North American Range

An understorey tree in moist or usually dry forest or thickets, often on dry open rocky hillsides, common in many regions along stream beds at elevations up to 900 metres. (Zone 9)