This tropical tree is widely distributed across the Americas, from Mexico down to southern South America. Historically, it served as a primary source of natural colorants for the textile industry. It plays an important role in secondary forests and disturbed habitats.
It typically forms a medium to large tree with a spreading canopy and milky latex in all parts. The leaves are ovate to elliptic, entire or serrate, and arranged alternately along the branches. Branches frequently feature axillary spines, which can be prominent in juvenile plants.
The inflorescences consist of small, greenish-yellow flowers. The aggregate fruit is globose and fleshy, turning greenish-yellow when mature.
Variable depending on latitude, typically during the dry-to-wet season transition
The heartwood produces a yellow-tan dye known as fustic, which was historically used to dye military uniforms and industrial textiles. Its dense, heavy timber is valued for heavy construction, railway ties, and cabinet making. In traditional practices, the milky latex is applied to relieve toothache and treat skin infections.
External Databases: GBIF
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