Manchineel

An evergreen tree in the spurge family, native to the coasts of Central America, northern South America, and the Caribbean. Recognised by Guinness as 'the world's most dangerous tree'. Its milky sap causes blistering on skin contact — even standing under it in rain causes dermatitis. The apple-like fruit is extremely toxic to eat; its specific epithet 'mancinella' (little apple) and Spanish name 'manzanilla de la muerte' (little apple of death) refer to this.

Identification Points

• ✓5–15 m tall with grey bark
• ✓Alternate glossy ovate leaves with serrated margins
• ✓Apple-like green to yellow-green fruit, 3–4 cm across

Morphological TraitsAI-estimated, needs verification

Phylogenetic Positionトウダイグサ科 →