Chittamwood
Bumelia lanuginosa
Family: Sapotaceae
What it is like
Bumelia lanuginosa is a deciduous Tree growing to 15 m (49ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from July to August, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). 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 and can grow in saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.
Height (m): 15
Where it is found
On sandy beaches and in sandy woods, preferring water courses and washes.
South-eastern N. America - Florida to Texas and Mexico.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
Fruit - usually pickled. Not very tasty according to one report whilst another says that large quantities can cause stomach upsets. The fruit is between 1 - 2cm in diameter. A clear viscid gum is obtained from the cut wood. It also exudes freely from wounds on the trunk and branches. The dried and ground up bark is used like chicle as a chewing gum.
Gum: can be chewed as a chewing gum or can often be used as a sweetener or thickening agent in foods.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
Wood - heavy, rather soft, not strong, close grained. It weighs about 40lb per cubic foot. Used for tool handles, cabinet making etc.
Gum: Gums have a wide range of uses, especially as stabilizers, emulsifiers, thickening agents, adhesives etc.
Shelterbelt: Wind resistant plants than can be grown to provide shelter in the garden etc.
Wood: A list of the trees and shrubs that are noted for having useful wood.
How it is grown
Succeeds in a warm sunny site in any freely draining moderately fertile soil. Tolerates salt spray. This species is probably hardy in the milder areas of the country. Another report says that plants are cut back by temperatures below about -15°c but that they can regenerate freely from the base. The flowers are an excellent source of honey.
Propagating it: Seed - we have no details on this species but would suggest that if ripe seed can be obtained it should be sown straight away in a cold greenhouse. Stored seed can be sown in late winter or early spring in a greenhouse. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter, planting them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Canopy; Secondary;
Habit: Tree
Hardiness: 5-9
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist