Guajilote, Cuachilote

Frost Tolerance: Hardy to 32°F (°C)

Sun Exposure: Full sun

Origin: Mexico and Guatemala

Growth Habits: Tree, up to 30 feet tall (9 m)

Watering Needs: Regular to abundant water

Propagation: Seeds

Guajilote (Parmentiera edulis), U.S.D.A. Forest Service Collection, Courtesy of the Hunt Institute

This tree of Mexico and Guatemala seldom grows more than 30 feet (9 m) in height. The Parmentiera edulis is adapted to a wide range of climatic conditions but is most frequently found in high-rainfall forests where it grows spontaneously. sometimes covering very large areas. Its trifoliate leaves with winged petioles are clustered at the nodes of the spiny branches.

Blooming Habits:
Rather large, greenish-white flowers are borne singly or in clusters at the branch tips.

Fruiting Habits:
The ridged, red-stained, yellow fruits of the Parmentiera edulis are 4 to 6 inches in length (5 to 15 cm) and 1 to 2 inches in diameter (3 to 5 cm). They are sweet and edible either raw or cooked. The fruit is sometimes made into pickles or preserves. It is reported to be a good remedy for colds, and the roots are used as a diuretic. In flavor the raw fruit resembles sugarcane.

Propagation:
Propagation of the guajilote is easily accomplished by planting the small seeds.