Pitomba

Talisia esculenta

Physical Characteristics

Talisia esculenta is a deciduous Tree growing to 10 m (32ft) by 10 m (32ft) 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 and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

S. America - Paraguay, Brazil, Bolivia.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw[335 ]. A brown-yellow fruit with 1 or 2 large seeds covered in a thin, translucent, sweet and sour flavoured edible pulp[335 , 416 ]. Very tasty[419 ]. The fruit is about 3cm long and 2.5cm in diameter[335 ]. The fruit is borne in clusters of 10 - 20 fruits[377 ].

Medicinal Uses

Antidote The roots are antidote. A decoction, taken internally and also applied topically, is used in the treatment of poisonous animals[739 ]. Combined with the fruit of annatto (Bixa orellana) and the fruit peel of assai (Euterpe spp.), it is used in the treatment of jaundice[739 ].

Known Hazards

None known