Hello, I need help ID'ing a tree in my backyard. We recently purchased a new house and came across a tree with weird looking fruit like "things" on it. The fruit-like objects are red/yellow. Appears that the fruit-like thing gets more red as it ripens. Then, they open or bloom to expose two grape sized black "things". They almost look like eyeballs dangeling from the bloomed fruit. Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
Hi, first welcome to GardenStew. Is there any way you can post a picture of this tree, fruit and seeds. It really is difficult to ID it from a description since there are many trees that could describe. Looking forward to pictures so we can help you determine what it is and proper care needed to keep it healthy.
Thanks for the warm welcome! Sure thing, i'll post a picture tommorow when I get home from work. Look forward to the help! Thanks for the reply!
Ah 8) you must be living in a tropical part of the world, these are fairly commonly seen in the southern-most parts of Florida. It is Blighia sapida (aka- Cupania sapida) commonly called "Akee Fruit". More photos here. Quite an attractive tree, I think -- BUT -- :!: It is important to note that the fruit is considered toxic until it has opened. :!: I would recommend against eating them at all, :-? but some cultures do use them as a food product. Click here for more info. including the following: By the way, welcome to the stew, it's great to have you with us.
Ahhh! Thanks for the information! Yes, it is a very odd fruit indeed. Question. I have two dogs that love the backyard. Do you think the fruit poses any danger to them? I'd hate to cut the tree down but if my pups aren't safe... ya gotta do what ya gotta do.
Blighia (named for the (in)famous 8) Capt. Bligh of the ship "Bounty", BTW) is a member of the Sapindaceae or soapberry family. The green fruits will actually produce a lather, and are used for washing laundry by some indigenous peoples in W. Africa. Most animals find the soapy flavor unpalatable and leave the fruits alone after investigating them. I've known many folks with pets to grow these trees and never heard tell of a problem. But, :-? that said, it would surely be wise to keep any fallen fruits cleared away from where a pup with a taste for soap might get ahold of one. The toxin can cause diarrhea, and even affect the nervous system. I've read that a mash made of Akee fruits is used to stun fish by some tribal fishermen.
