Para breadnut tree
Brosimum rubescens

Family: Moraceae

What it is like

A tree. It can grow up to 40 m tall. The trunk is straight and has prop roots. It can be 50-70 cm across. The leaves are simple and alternate. They tend to be clustered towards the end of the branches. The fruit is a small berry that turns purple when ripe.

The latex is also used as a medicine.

Where it is found

It is a tropical plant. It grows in wet evergreen forests at low altitudes.

Countries/locations it is found in

Bolivia, Brazil, Central America, Colombia, Costa Rica, Panama, Peru, South America

How it is used for food

The latex is sometimes used as a milk substitute in coffee. It is possibly considered medicine.

Edible parts

Latex, fruit

How it is grown

It can be grown from seed.

Its other names

Local names

Amap-amargoso, Amao-rana, Condudu, Bloodwood catique, Brazilian red wood, Brosimum satine, Cajiman, Chimico, Conza negro, Doctoa, Doekaliballi, Guanacaste, Ibiberoebaria, Ipguayoi, Jaiveciidi, Karana, Pairi seine, Lechero, Marequende, Marima, Mirapiranga, Mui, Palisangre, Palo brasil, Sande

Synonyms

Alicastrum rubescens (Taub.) Taub.; Brosimum angustifolium Ducke; Brosimum brevipedunculatum Ducke; Brosimum caloxylon Standl.; Brosimum lanciferum Ducke; Brosimum longistipulatum Ducke; Brosimum paraense Huber; Brosimum platyneurum Ducke; Ferolia guianensis Aubl.; Parinari guianensis (Aubl.) Lemée; Parinari guyanensis (Aubl.) Lemée; Piratinera lancifera (Ducke) Benoist; Piratinera paraensis (Huber) Benoist; Piratinera rubescens (Taub.) Pittier;