Yellow mombin

Yellow Mombin (Spondias mombin), also known as Hog Plum or Spanish Plum, is a tropical fruit-bearing tree of the family Anacardiaceae. It is native to the tropical Americas, including the West Indies. The tree has been naturalized in parts of Africa, India, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, and other tropical regions.

Description

The Yellow Mombin tree can grow up to 25 meters in height. The leaves are pinnate, with 7-23 leaflets, each leaflet 3–7 cm long and 1–3 cm broad. The flowers are small, white, produced in large panicles. The fruit is an oval drupe, 3–6 cm long and 2–3 cm broad, ripening yellow, and contains a single large seed.

Cultivation and Uses

Yellow Mombin is cultivated for its edible fruit; the tree is also used for timber and resin. The fruit is eaten fresh or used to make jellies, drinks, and ice cream. In traditional medicine, the leaves, bark, and roots are used to treat a variety of ailments.

Nutritional Value

The fruit is rich in Vitamin C, dietary fiber, and essential minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium. It also contains antioxidants that help to boost the immune system.

Cultural Significance

In many cultures, the Yellow Mombin tree is considered sacred and is often planted near temples and shrines. In folklore, it is believed to bring good luck and prosperity.

See Also

• Tropical fruit
• Anacardiaceae
• Spondias