Balata, bulletwood, bully tree

Manilkara bidentata

Physical Characteristics

Manilkara bidentata is an evergreen Tree growing to 30 m (98ft) by 25 m (82ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. Suitable for: medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist or wet soil.

Distribution

S. America - Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, the Guyanas; C. America - Panama; Caribbean.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Sap Edible Uses: Gum Milk Fruit - raw[379 ]. The globose berries about 25mm in diameter, and usually contain a single, shiny, black seed, surrounded by a sweet, gummy pulp[379 ]. Although no specific information has been seen for this species, the sap from some of the other species within the genus can be used as a substitute for cow's milk[379 ]. The latex has the consistency and taste of cream, but overindulgence in it can result in severe constipation[379 ].

Medicinal Uses

Dysentery Emetic A latex obtained from the stems is used as an effective cure for dysentery[348 ]. The bark is emetic. A decoction of the bark, combined with the barks of Hymenaea sp. and Humiria sp., is used as an effective cure for dysentery[348 ]. The leaves are used for treating paralysis of the limbs[739 ].

Known Hazards

None known