Bastard Breadnut

Brosimum guianense

Physical Characteristics

Brosimum guianense is a deciduous Tree growing to 25 m (82ft) by 20 m (65ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

S. America - Brazil, Bolivia and Peru, north through Central America to Mexico.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Edible portion: Fruit. The fruit pulp is eaten raw.

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Anthelmintic Antiasthmatic Bitter The macerated bark is warmed and used as an analgesic[ 348 ]. The latex is anthelmintic, bitter and caustic[ 348 ]. It is mixed with dairy milk and then drunk as a remedy for internal ulcers. It is drunk as a treatment for asthma and colds[ 348 ].

Known Hazards

None known