PLANTS OF THE EDIBLE AND POISONOUS | \ _ CARIBBEAN REGION NAVMED 127 2-4 - . as ak er 8 Sn - phe | EDIBLE AND POISONOUS . PLANTS OF SEH: ‘CARIBBEAN REGION Prepared by B. E. DAHLGREN Chief Curator, Department of Botany and PAUL C. STANDLEY Curator of the Herbarium, Field Museum of Natural History Issued by the Bureau of Medicine and Surgery Navy Department UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE WASHINGTON : 1944 For sale by the Superintendent of Documents, U. 8. Government Printing Office Washington, D.C. - Price 20 cents . Nari TABLE OF CONTENTS Sumer, General indtructions. {4 _--.- 222-2 - at one See Pritts, wild ana cultivated 2220222. oe im Mebee aitivated edible rodte.2) 2 oe lo ee ee oe mr Uciblevseeds and greens... -- Su Noob eo ws So eae mae Substitute water plants: = 420222 2. oe oo erinisonous Plants... 2 js. to ke ee cee Se Appendix I. Spanish names of common food plants__-_.------_------ II. Master identification table, edible and poisonous plants___ III. Master location table, edible and poisonous plants ILLUSTRATIONS Mune Manpiera indica) io 42-4 eee PD are Hh tte 1D Mt ot ueeta )-eeiea americana) =) 6 ee eee te oes 4k Meri c Abaya) Oe pal See eee et memencuerty (Lupgenia unifiora) 0. --..2-----2- = .- 25-22 se Meee vine (Parsifora ligularis)__-.. 2-2. ei ee we Wee Cl ommend americana) =. 2. 2 6 oe oe ee Beare (Calocarpum mammosum)~—__.-.___-_------4--_--2--+----25- em (pita Aapoia) ae ee oo ee ew (Anacardium occidentale). _._-_- 22-22-22 eee Star-apple (Chrysophyllum Cainito)_------------------ ph aibinn rte? By Memmi 1 peeuroma Cacao)... 2-2 Sa ee ello Mean Ceriovelrya japonica). she nk Soaard apple (Annona reticulata) -_-_. 2-42... --2-2-l-e ieee Becer Cannone miuricaia) ee oe eS feet op (Annona squamosa) ~~. e ae e ate Mee pone (Castmirodg edulis). o>. ooo es esl ce Le ee beeen pluin (Spondias. purpurea)... -- 2-2. eho este Remeene P art eudsand) ae ee baeed cherry (Prunus capult) ... 0 8S eae TEE 1s Cah Etzade EO Se: Meeed apple (Crataceus pubescens)... 4. 2 be ke ee cee Rumemedia (Uousiera acniciosa) 4. 2 8 ke OS ee Meeps (furenia jambos) <7es oe Ae ee Tamarind (Tamarindus indica)_.--.---- adh POLI pe ge ls Une een Oa aS ak MN ay Ge ee ie a eo Se ee ek cae et eM eres i ee ee ee Seema (Coccoloba ueiera) 2 ee a See Pingwing (Bromelia Pinguin) (A) and Piro Sk ataias) (By. ee IIl Page Coco plum (Chrysobolanus Icaco)----------- te WLS: oe 37 Aceituno (Stmaruba glauca)... s_--4. 2-2-1 2 et eee 38 Sunzapote (Licanta platypus)... - 4-2. - 22-222 eee 39 Wild fig (Ficus) 2 222202 ie l eo ee 40 Akee (Blighta sapida)_.<-2i..--2-.-- 2-2. eee 4] Breadiruit U4riocarpus tncisa)...-....--22 22-2 Sa 42 Ground cherry (Physalis)_. _= 2 s-- +. 4b 2 a ee 43 Prickly pear (Opuntia) (A) and Organ cactus (Cereus) (B) ------------ 44 Oto (Xanthosoma violaceum)_ v=... -< eee 46 Dasheen.(Colocasia antiquorum) ... 9... SS eee 47 Wam \CDroscorea) ioc. 2 se a 48 Cassava: (Manthot).-...2 53 See eee eee 49 Yam bean (Pachyrhizus erosus)2-- 2.22 Ci eee ee 50 Palmonuts.2 os 22 ee eleeh el edie Li ee A ee 51 Pejibaye (Guiliema Gasipaes)_ = 22-2 22-4. .-->.-1-- 2 eee 55 Pacaya palm (Chamaedorea)-.-22_ 5-07.) Sk 32 ee 56 Spanish bayonet (Yucca elephantipes)..2-2 2-22. 2-2:_. 2-2 eee Cy ae Breadnut (Brosimum Alicastrum)__-._....--.------- a 2 Se ae 58 Panama tree (Sterculia apetala) . os >. .2 2 on ee 59 Provision tree (Pachira).. 9. ooo a i ee 60 Courbaril (Hymenaea Courbaril). 222.2 232 3 ee ert 61 Pursley (Portulaca oleracea)... 02-452. - 224 a 62 Black nightshade (Solanum nigrum) _..---.----------- yi. Se eee 63 Coralibean: (2rythrina) 0.26 2 ele ee a ee 64 Oksa’ (Hibiscus exculentus)? 2 US te a Se 65 Chayote (Sechium edule) oo. ee eee 66 Wild erape (Wits titifolia)o soe le ee 69 235 Water vine (7 ctracera) 2. 2 i ee 70 Dumb cane-(Dicfenbachta) = 222 ees ee 74 Manchineel (Hippomane Mancinella).....-------------------------< 75 Sandbox tree (Hura erepttans) 20 ek ee Coes 76 Olivo (Sapium) 2.22 tee outta ee ee 77 Poison spurge (Euphorbia cotinifolia)_.....--.------- ak 2) aire 78 Poison sumac:( Rhus siriata)-- vas 25 ee Se ee 79 Gano (Comocladia) t-te ee en Pp ee i ck. 80 Black poison wood (Metopium toxiferum)......--------------------- fe White poison wood (Cameraria latifolia)... 2.2 >S2_ Dob ie ae 82 Physic nut (Jatropha Curcas) 2 -..2-.022.2.2- a 83 Huilihuiste (Karwinskia Calderontt).. 0.22 22 eee » 84 Moco Tinto (Coriaria thymifolta)_<-.- 2-2 22-3 eee 85 Ciega-Vista (Croton ciliato-glandulosus)__....------2----22---------- 86 Stinpine spurge (Jatropha urens).... uo. 24h zB. eee 87 Nettle tree (Urera baccifera)_--.- 2 2 ee 88 , Cowitch (Mucuna pruriens). 222224... 2 eee ee 89 .\ Seumpet tree (Cecropia).o_ 2-0. 2s b.22 2-4 he ee 90 Section I General Instructions Purpose and scope of the manual.—This manual is designed to aid the serviceman to live off the land if he becomes separated from his unit. It illustrates and describes common edible and poisonous plants of the Caribbean region, chiefly of Central America and the West Indies. Included in the manual are the more common plants that are found in reasonable abundance and that may be used as food in times of emergency. The following types of plants have been excluded: 1. Rare species. 2. Plants well known to Americans, such as maize or Indian corn, rice, carrots, beets, garden beans, squashes, cucumbers, egg plants, sweet peppers, sugar cane, and other universally cultivated food plants. 3. Familiar fruits such as oranges, bananas, PEE AD ENS: and specific types of cocoanuts. Edible plants of the Caribbean—In emergency many tropical plants may be eaten if they have no unpleasant taste, but try only a little at atime. Included in the manual are a few of the edible roots usually found in cultivation. However if they are found wild at any time be certain to cook them well before eating. In this region of tropical America there are some plants with very succulent stems that contain sufficient sap to be used as a substitute for water. Avoid any that have milky juice or sap, unless they are described as edible in this manual. Do not eat any raw fruit found on the ground, because 1t may carry a disease. _ Fhe list of poisonous or harmful plants discussed is rather formidable, but only a few will be found in any one locality, and often none at all. Poisonous plants are no more common st 2 in the tropics than in the United States. Most of them are found in the mountainous regions and not along the coasts. Frequently many parts of a plant may be eaten including its fruit, seeds, tender leaves, and roots. ‘The text contains in- formation on the special preparation of unripe fruits, methods of cooking flowers and greens, and other information needed to prevent starvation. Fruits (mango, breadfruit, papaw, wild cherry, etc.) are im- portant sources of vitamin C. Green and yellow food plants also are sources of vitamin C as well as of carotene, the precursor of vitamin A. Fleshy roots (dasheen, yam, cassava) contain - starch and other carbohydrates and are fair sources of energy when eaten in sufficient quantity. Fleshy fruits such as the avocado are frequently rich in fat, while seeds are usually rich in protein and fat. Advice of natives.—In all parts of this region the natives know both the wild and cultivated plants which may be used as food. Fruits and vegetables found in the village and city markets pro- vide an excellent means of quickly learning which plants may be eaten with complete safety. In using the identification tables the following steps are to be taken: 1. Determine whether the plant part you wish to identify is a fruit, root, seed, or leaf. 2. Turn to the section of the manual describing this plant part, as fruits (section II), roots (section III), and so on. CAUTION: Do not fail also to look in the section concerning poisonous plants. | 3. Note the color of the part of the plant you are trying to identify and locate that color in the first column.’ The second: column indicates the part of the plant that is colored. You now have identified the color and the part, as purple flower, red stem, and so on. oo 3 4. In the third column is a brief description of the plant part you are identifying, as “‘resembles small apple” or “has three- celled pod.” 5. When you have found the description that you believe best fits the plant you have found, turn to column 6 for the page in the text which illustrates and discusses the plant. 6. Turn to this page and compare carefully the tllustration with the food plant you wish to identify. 7. If you are satisfied that the two are the same, read the text carefully before eating the food plant. ‘The discussion contains information about eating the food, how to prepare the plant part before eating, and a more detailed description. In using the location tables nearly the same procedure should be followed, except that the plant is identified first by the place that it is found growing. ‘Thus column 1 lists the natural habitat of the plant, and column 2 briefly describes the plant itself. When you are reasonably certain that the description is similar to the growing plant, turn to the page of the manual that illustrates and further describes the plant. Use the table merely ‘as a reference guide. ‘The discussion accompanying the illus- tration includes important supplementary information. Whenever possible wild plants should be checked with the natives before being eaten. ‘They usually know how emergency plants should be prepared, and those which may be poisonous when eaten raw. They are familiar with the region, and know- ing the dangerous plants, they can be most helpful in times when regular rations are not available. Use of Identification and Location Tables Included in each section of this manual are tables that will assist the serviceman in more quickly and easily identifying the food plants that he has located. For example, if he finds a pink fruit growing along the seashore, he may use either or both of the tables in section II on the “‘Location and Identity of Fruits—Wild and Culti- vated.” ‘The identification table deals with the colored parts 4 of the plant, a brief description of that part (leaf, fruit, flower, etc.), and the page of the text where that particular plant is illustrated and more fully described. ‘The location table will help the serviceman to identify edible or poisonous plants by the places he finds them growing; that is, under cultivation, in — thickets, on wet or dry soils, along the coast, and the various topographical locations peculiar to the Caribbean region. CAUTION: Do not use these tables alone to determine whether or not a food plant can be eaten. Many planis are harmful or potsonous unless properly prepared. Precautionary measures and methods of preparation of edible food plants may be found only by referring to the proper pages of the text as indicated 1n the tables. Appendix II, “‘Master Identification Table of Edible and Poisonous Plants,” and Appendix III, “Master Location Table of Edible and Poisonous Plants,” are a compilation of all the ta- bles of the book. ‘The procedure for using these master guides is the same as previously described. Do not rely solely on the information given in the table, but compare the plant and illus- tration carefully, and read the accompanying text thoroughly. Section II Fruits, Wild and Cultivated Identification table.—The following ready reference table does not include all means of identifying wild and cultivated fruits. It is confined to a description of the color, size, shape, or peculiar- ities of these fruits. For complete identification turn to the text page indicated in the table. Identification Table—Fruits BLACK Plant part! Descripti Illus. Ss Page ption NG: ommon name No. peng ih Resembles large plum________.________- Zou Coco: phim." >. 37 eS pas ae Size and shape of olive___.___________-- 29 | Aceituno- pean ee sco 38 BROWN yee os oe ss PaEMReR ss Se oe a Gil Mameéy 5220 S217 eee. 15 ip tess | PCOS NOC ES I es Sah Oc Va SapOte oc soe Le 16 Agee oe Soft, scaly, or smooth skin._..___.------ 8") Sapodilla 72. a= > 17 omega Brown, silky underside______._.__-_----- 10: (/Star-apple. 2. = 2 pees 19 eS J EXEC Chase cs iMag SI A RU el a i a Al 23 | “Namannd 2 2228 ese 32 |e Lee Has rough rind# 220622 2 Bes beet 30° | Sunzapotes. --* ae 39 |S eRe oarge nearly round: 22. 6 4 $3... Breadisuit. 425-5 seeue 42 GREEN SOL ae Sweets juicy desis. sess Yl ee 1 | Mango (Caution)____-- 10 ie eae Melon-like, green when unripe but edible __ 3. 4 Papaw.oc Skee 12 2 eG ae White, green, or reddish purple, large and 5 |. Passion vine. 22222 =. 14 small. Peg) (loeks dike small’apple: 2.222 o 1 2 10::| Star-apples2: #2 eres 19 | ee ee Grows on trunk of tree___-.._____.----- Th e@acao. aa eas 20 es nk Very large; has soft spines_____________- 14, Soursopec ae 2s eo ee 23 [eS eee Metlow with green tinge. 2.22) 22128 15: JuSweet-sope - 0 oe 24 12 Cy Leann Thin membranous skin__.____________-- 16 | White sapote._._____- 25 | SSS Tiga ae ae Soft; strong musky odor2__..____-_.-.- Ton Guava ee ote ee 27 feces fe) s...| Resembles:an ear of corn___._._.------- 21 | Pinanona (Caution)..-- 30 eer cfs 5 Purple or white tinged with green_-_-____- 22) Rose appless Sos 31 pier ane pa uanrpe, nearly round. oT. G2 23 oe eset 33" Breadiniit..¢- =. Se 42 1F=Fruit; Fl=Flower; L=Leaves. 6 Identification Table—Fruits—Continued ee ns ORANGE Plant part! Description Flesh. ....- Resembles muskmelon or cantaloupe__.-- | ee er oe Egg-shape; hard shell_............--..-. je Regt Three-celled pod< 2. se. 5L so PINK Bley ce Both fruit and seeds are edible________.- | pe ete Oval; covered with leaf scales_..__.--..- PURPLE je Oe ae a ie Bk Resembles small apple..........._.---- Pee eee Fruit resembles plum_..._.-.-..------- Fee Thin. /tender skin 3°02 Goo ee ee Pits oe et Purple, or may be white tinged with green_ g RR atlas ai GA iTel Oi at Camel NAR Om Ny open ai Rem eth Ae | Sica ey aa Resembles large plum____....._-__----- Pie vase Young leaves are red or purple_______-_- RED ae cena, Pe Sweet, juicy heshes: oe oe fee | Dips Mesa od ee Contains single-ridged seed.___.....__-.- Bebe cL Moulticolored’) 2o08 ow sete 0 sores Lie ae _ oR ESE eg Size and shape of pepper._____-__------ SE eee, Heart-shaped ssi ese ms fe oe oak Fruit resembles plum 2.5222 a ROR aa ane Red or bluish. dark fed soe 0 ear oy Se RO Soi” a} Small ced and yellow.) oe oc as es Red when faded; yellow when young--____ , oy a Dek Rtas eon ee Bee eee ES | aise erie eh eg Dialer tere ee iret 2 es eee , Dain aD Resembles pineapple_.__.____________-_- , ends Sa eS Resembles pineapple_.._-_._---.__--__- 1s CAN Te Ae 707 010-1 | fps OAT Nir REGAN Ra cea AE MORN, hye KEG: 8S | 8 Oa op he Young red or purple leaves____._______- BOA isi 5 ‘nrec-celled 90d. big see os a oe 10 17 19 22 26 28 30 Cacho (Caution)...-- Organ cactus... Star-apple__-_- Spanish plum____----- Wild cherry....--.--- Rose apple... Sea grape.~-- Coco plum 2. 322 eee Sunzapote_-___ -eeerwewe Mango (Caution)_.-_.- Surinam cherry....2-- Passion vine-- Cashew (Caution)_.__-. Custard apple_ Spanish plum___--.._- Spanish plum__-_--_-- Tamarind: Jo o..) 0 seen Sea grapesici ogee eee Sea grapési2. Cee Pingwing... 222 Aceituno. 2.2 2eSeeees Sunzapote__-...-- aeecates Akee (Caution) 18 44 1 F=Fruit; Fl=Flower; L=Leaves, : a Identification T able—F ruits—Continued WHITE Pl 1 sites Illus. Page ant part Description No. Common name Ms: 7 SS Miniticoloted 2) 1 sie 5 | Passion vine._.------- 14 cate een Covered with green and white network__- Ti Cactotli ste Sse 20 |" Sees Fruit is pale yellow______-_- ie EAE SR 12> In oduaks cc ee ee see 21 a ine ae ana White “bieom™” on fruit. 202 15 | Sweet-sop__._--2.-.-- 24 ea Resembles chokecherry of U. S. A.____-_- 19-1. Wild: cherry22522--2:- 28 (a Waxy with green center__._-....--_--_- 21 | Piftanona (Caution)___- 30 SEL ea Hard, Grispere onl 5 2. Pace hia Sh ine St bh 227) Rose. apples. i i= 31 Berita s cee Se Small, juicy, slightly sour__--- re Sie ate 26 1 Sex grape. ee 35 Pees foe eS, STE | BE Sete pt at LI Gell A a gi 0 pee Sa 28 1. Coco plunr $<. 2228 Si Pee Resembles large plum________-__-.-.-_- 28:.\ Coco plums. 2- 26 7 YELLOW _ Pics. 2 . Like muskmelon or cantaloupe______-_-- Sl. apa Saye. hie 12 og los Ua enee-snane:\aard strells 7200 kk ek 5.) Passion vine=2.2.--__. 14 : ar a ra Size and shape of: pepper=._...._2__é.__ 9 | Cashew (Caution)_____- 18 Seapets nea Leathery, yellow green____-________.__- 9 | Cashew (Caution)__-_- 18 es Somewhat downy surface_._.._......___- 123; Logmatts 7 maw 21 |, SUE Saas Greenish yellow 2. 345-2 oo Te 19 Sweetzsope 2. 2 es ss 2 24 : ei ae ‘Phin; membranous skin. os. 3052.20.03. 16 | White sapote__._____- 25 a eae imecemibles: plant 2) oe ee <| 17-} Spanishplum—__.2—- _- 26 pen Ea Soft, has many large seeds______.______- TS t\\ Guavasr se. 2 yet 27 Be Resembles small apple. ~_.-_._-.-______ 20. | Thorn apple. -.---=__- 29 2 eee Bard criep. 2 See Ua ee a ya 22: |. -Rose-apple...o-2-..-2 31 * ie eee Small. yellow:aud rede ann eo 23.3: Pamarind): 5. 42 32 | > SR aeen pier ‘Tura red as they fades) 6 so ke 25-1 Nanceda 2 SBS oes 34 ie ee sPastes like applesi v2. le 25:1 INemcet eae ee 34 | Wee Resembles pineapple__________-___-___- 27 |. Pingwing 32-2 o> 3.222 36 | 2 Saas Looks like small Chinese lantern____.____ 34 | Ground cherry...._-.- 43 1F=Fruit: Fl=Flower; L= Leaves. Location table.—The following reference table does not include all means of identifying a fruit or all fruits discussed in this sec- tion. In many instances a plant will be found growing through- out all parts of the Caribbean region. The classified topographi- cal locations are general. Use this table merely as a guide. Necessary supplementary information is given on the pages indicated in the location table, 8 Location Table—Frutits COASTAL AREA Description ae Common name Lore Heart-shaped, yellow fruit; tinged with red__..-----_-- 13 | Custard apple. 2222222 22 Small tree or bush; young leaves are red or purple__-__- 26 |.Sea. grapes io eee 35 Fruits resemble plum; small white flowers_..__._..-_---- 28. | Coco plum) 2232 ae 37 CULTIVATED ONLY Fruits vary. in size, shape, and, color-2 2-62 2222 e222 2 | Avocadoss. =) 4aesame 11 Bush or small tree; fruit is a tomato-red____________-- 4 | Surinam cherry______- 13 Green or purple apple-like fruit..._............_------ 10 | Star-apple_._..___- gh Wash 1) Fruit greenish; grows on tree trunk_________________- 14 | Soursop. s20 222 23 Fruit yellow green with white “‘bloom”_______.___-_-- 15 | Sweet-sop. 2.222222 24 Fruit almost black; resembles olive.____.__.___-_-__-_- 29.4 Aceituno, 2" ees 38 Round green or greenish-brown fruit__......._.---_-- 33 |. BreadfrnitSugse Sees 42 DRY PLACES Red or yellow fruit peremaielinie peppersc2 lie es 9 | Cashew (Caution)____- ae tae Bright yellow flowers; yellow fruit...-.....__.-.-__-- 25. | Nancego oe eee 34 Cactus; pear-shaped drmits 252 ta hie, Pe ae ee 35 | Prickly; pearl ee 44 Cactus-(oval, -bright-pink fruit. tse ee ee ee 35; | Organ cactus. eee a4 LOWLANDS Greenish orreddish feuitéi 228 soe ee 1 | Mango (Caution)_____- 10 Fruit resembles muskmelon or cantaloupe____________- 3°:| Papaw. i 2 ee 12 Brown skin of fruit is either scaly or smooth...-_____- 8 | Sapodilla (Uae piesa 17 Green or purple fruit resembles apple_........__._____- 10 | Star-apple._...______- 19 Flowers and fruits. srow.on’ trunk. = 50025500. oe 11 | ‘Cacao. tee 20 Fruit resembles plum; yellow to deep red__-____-_____- 17 | Spanish plum__._____- 26 Yellow green fruit with musky odor__-____-__---__-___- 18 || Guavat 22s 2 eee 27 White or yellow fruit is hard and crisp__.._-___-____-_- 22 | Rose apple... 2_-.--. 31 Small red and yellow flowers; brown fruit______-_____- 23 ‘i Tamarind: 2222 see 32 Flowers bright yellow; fruit yellow____.._._-_-_______- 25.) Nance... eee 34 Resembles pineapple; ripe fruit is yellow or red______.- 27 | Pingwing-) 2) eee 36 Pruit.is petter thin pikewiies es oe se 27.1 Piro sib Sil ieee 36 Fruit is almost black; resembles olive._______________- 29\| Aceituno==- S02 See 38 Large fruit; with brown rough rind; red leaves________ 30: | Sunzapote. 2° 22 32 eee 4°99 Red or orange pod-like fruite:) ooo. 52 2 ee 32 | Akee (Caution)_______- 41 9g ; ! Location Table—Continued MIDDLE ALTITUDES Description ee Fruit resembles raekdelon OFicantaloupe anye 3 Fruit resembles plum; yellow to deep red__._________- 17 Long, flat pods; trees shade coffee bushes_-____-.__--- 24 MOUNTAINOUS REGIONS Climbing plant; multicolored flowers; egg-shapped fruit with hard shell. Yellow green fruit; thin membranous skin__.._._..._-- Yellow green fruit with musky odor-- Se ee ee Red purple fruit; size of sour cherry__....-....------- Tree has thorns; fruit resembles apple-- Greenish or reddish fruits__._._______- eenmrer een ene ewe me ee ewe = ww ern en ne me ee we we ew ew Green fruit size and shape of corn on cob______--__--- Pale yellow fruit with downy surface_ RICH SOILS Heart-shaped fruit; yellow streaked with red________-- Fruit resembles plum; small white flowers._._....__.._-- Green fruit; looks like small Chinese lantern_...._____- Fruit has rough brown skin and large Brown skin of fruit is either scaly or s WASTE GROUNDS Seeder UL ues mooth!: 22 Weer b) Fruit yellow green with white ‘‘bloom”__________.---- Soft, round fruit with tiny hole at top 5 13 34 15 31 Wild cherry... 2.2.22 Thorn ‘apple. 2-2 _3-- Mango (Caution)______ Pinanona (Caution) ____ Custard apple..23.-.- Coco plum<._....2._._- Ground cherry___----- 14 25 27 28 29 10 30 21 22 37 43 17 24 10 Illustrations of Specific Fruits 1. Manco Mangifera indica Mangos are edible except for their skins which will blister the lips. ‘They may be eaten either raw or.cooked. The fruits are in season from February to April. The large mango trees are often cultivated, but they grow wild in the Canal Zone. The mature fruits are either green or red-tinged and have sweet juicy flesh. Although there are many widely different varieties of mangos, most of the cultivated kinds are very good to eat. The wild trees bear fruit of very poor quality; many are very stringy and have a flavor somewhat like turpentine. 11 2. Avocapo (alligator pear) Persea americana _ Avocados are eaten raw and are highly nutritious. They are usually prepared as a salad with vinegar, salt, or other flavoring. They are common in most areas of tropical America, chiefly in cultivation. They vary greatly in shape, size, and color. They are undoubtedly one of the best products of tropical America, although northern people often have to acquire a taste for them. Wild avocados are common in some parts of Central America, particularly the yas of Costa Rica, and the chucté, shucté, or coy6 of Guatemala. Other names for this fruit are alligator pear and aguacate. 3. PAPAW Carica papaya The green, unripe papaws may be cooked and eaten like squash. ‘The ripe papaws, generally considered one of the best of all tropical fruits, areeatenraw. ‘The juicy sweet flesh of the mature papaw is yellow or light orange and resembles musk- melons and cantaloupes. ‘The trees are grown in abundance at low and middle altitudes in tropical America. Papaws are also often found growing wild, but the fruits of the wild plants are small and of poor quality. The papaw is called papaya in most Spanish-speaking countries, but this name should not be used in Cuba where it is an obscene word. The Cuban name is fruta bomba. 13 4, SuRINAM CHERRY Eugenta uniflora The surinam cherry is eaten raw. It is sweet and spicy and is considered by many to be one of the best of all tropical fruits. _ The bush or small tree is not common in the Caribbean region, except in cultivation along the Atlantic Coast of Central America and in some islands of the West Indies. ‘The fruit is tomato-red in color and contains a single, ridged seed. It is also called cereza de cayena in Cuba and Puerto Rico. 565269—44—-—_2 14 5. Passion VINE Passiflora ligularis The pulp of the fruit of the passion vine is very good to eat, and its seeds may be chewed and swallowed. Many species of this plant are found growing in the mountainous parts of Mexico and Central America. ‘The passion vine is a-vigorous climber. It has large and small flowers which are white, green, or purple incolor. ‘The egg-shaped fruit-has a hard shell, numerous seeds, and a sweet, mashy, white pulp. When fully ripened, the shell is yellow or orange and sometimes purple-tinged. It is also called passion fruit and granadilla. 15 6 Mamey Mammea americana ‘The fruit of the mamey tree may be eaten either raw or cooked. Most northern people consider it very good. It is found only in cultivation and is common in some parts of the West Indies but scarce on the mainland. It is a large tree with milky sap. ‘The skin of the fruit is brown and the firm flesh is yellow or light redincolor. Itis called mamey de Sanio Domingo in Cuba; mamey de Cartagena in Panama; zapote mamey in Mexico; and mammee in most Spanish-speaking regions. 7. SAPOTE Calocarpum mammosum This is one of the favorite fruits of the inhabitants of tropical America and is also well liked by many northern people. It may be eaten raw. ‘The tree is commonly cultivated in the whole Caribbean area, but grows more or less wild in Central America. It isa tall tree with milky sap and large leaves grow- ing in clusters near the ends of the branches. ‘The fruit has a rough brown skin and contains one large, shiny brown seed. Its soft flesh is pink or light red and sweet. It is called zapote in most parts of Central America and Mexico; mamey colorado in Cuba; mammee sapote in Jamaica; mamey sapote in Puerto Rico; and mamey and mamey de tierra in Panama. 8. SAPODILLA Achras Zapota The fruit of the sapodilla is always eaten raw. Most north- ern people consider it one of the best of tropical fruits. The brownish pulp of the ripe fruit is very soft and sweet and rather sticky. Its brownish skin may be smooth or scaly. ‘The large tree has hard, reddish durable wood and handsome evergreen foliage. It is planted commonly, but is, also found growing wild. The milky sap or latex of this tree yields the chicle from which chewing gum is made. In the British West Indies it is called naseberry; in Cuba, zapote; in most parts of Central America, nispero; and in the Philippines and Guatemala, chico and chicozapote. " Lean a Oi, SiN ‘i Mi it Bra 9. CASHEW Anacardium occidentale The red or_yellow fruit of the cashew tree may be eaten raw or cooked. However, the gray, kidney-shaped nut that hangs from the fruit must first be carefully removed. CAUTION: Care must be taken not to handle the nut with bare hands because its o1l irritates the skin and causes swelling. ‘The caustic oil is expelled from the shell by roasting; therefore in roasting the nuts do not allow the smoke to come in contact with the eyes or skin. The cashew tree is found growing wild as well as under culti- vation in fields and on the sides of dry, bushy hills throughout ‘most of the Caribbean region. It has pink flowers and yellow green leathery leaves. ‘The fruit flesh is white, spongy, very juicy, and has a sweet yet somewhat peppery flavor. It is also called maranon and jocote maranon, 10. STAR-APPLE Chrysophyllum Catnito The star-apple is always eaten raw. It is usually cultivated in the lowlands and only rarely grows wild. This large tree with milky sap is easily recognized by its oblong leaves which are dark green on top and golden brown and silky on the under- side. The fruit is shaped like a small apple and when cut through its carpels form a starlike pattern. Its skin is green or purple, and its greenish pulp is soft, sweet, and somewhat milky. Though a popular fruit among residents of the tropics, northerners usually consider it rather flavorless. Wild star- apple trees are found in many regions, but their leaves are usually silvery rather than brown on the underside and their fruits are smaller, but edible. Another name is caimito. 20 11. Cacao (English and Spanish) Theobroma Cacao The cacao fruit is a fleshy greenish or yellow pod containing — numerous seeds or “‘beans”? from which commercial chocolate, cocoa and cocoa butter are obtained. Both the raw seeds and the pulp are very good to eat. Several varieties of cacao trees grow in Central America, particularly that known as pataste or patashte. Cacao is cultivated widely in the Caribbean region. It is also often found wild in the forests, especially in Panama. The tree is easy to recognize because its small yellow flowers and podlike fruits grow on the trunk, | 2A 12. LoquaT Eriobotrya japonica ~ The plumlike loquat is usally eaten raw, but may be cooked. Before cooking, the seeds should be removed because they impart a bitter taste. ‘This tree grows in mountainous regions. Its elongated leaves are evergreen, its flowers are white and its fruits pale yellow and somewhat downy. ‘The firm mealy flesh of the fruit ranges from white to deep orange and has a flavor that distinctly suggests cherry. ‘The fruits are welcomed by persons who dislike the monotonous sweetness Of most tropical fruits. Other names are nispero japonés and nispero. 13. Custarp APPLE Annona reticulata The wild or cultivated fruits of the custard apple tree may be eaten raw. Growing on sandy or rich soil the trees sometimes attain the height of 25 feet. The heart-shaped fruits vary in size from a few ounces to2 pounds. ‘The mature fruit is reddish yellow or brown, and its flesh is milky white in color, granular near the thin skin and sweet to the taste. ‘There are many kinds of custard apples in this region, but all look much alike. In most Spanish-speaking countries the custard apple is called anona or anon; in Cuba it is known as mamon; in Puerto Rico, corazon; and in Venezuela, rinon. It is also called bullock’s heart. 23 M3 ey), | Mis @ ) : X ee” vy a: ws ‘On Ns i ‘ ( . P 14. Soursorp | Annona muricata ‘ The juicy white pulp of the soursop can be eaten raw, but it is chiefly used for preparing beverages. Simply crush the pulp and add water. The plant is cultivated throughout much of the Caribbean region. ‘The small tree has leaves with a spicy odor; the fruit, which is almost pear-shaped and as large as a child’s head, usually grows from the trunk or thicker branches. Its greenish skin is covered with a few soft spines, and the pulp has a slightly sour, excellent flavor. It is also called guandbana and guanaba. ~ 15. SwEET-soP Annona squamosa This fruit is eaten raw. The small sweet-sop tree is native to | the West Indies, and is found chiefly under cultivation in Cen- tral America. Its flowers are a greenish yellow. The fruit, varying in shape, has a yellow-green scaly rind covered with a white “bloom” which can easily be removed. It is not neces- sary, however, that it be removed. The mealy part of the fruit © is white, custard-like, and sweet; the seeds are black and shiny. The sweet-sop is also called sugar-apple, anona, and anon and is sometimes erroneously called custard apple. 16. WHITE SAPOTE ‘ Casimiroa edults The fruit of the white sapote may be eaten raw. The me- dium-size tree with pale bark is common, wild and planted, through much of the highlands of Mexico and Central America. It is also cultivated in other tropical regions of the Caribbean. The yellow green fruit, about the size of an orange, has a thin, membranous skin. Its pulp is yellow white, very soft, juicy, ‘and sweet. Many northern people are fond of this fruit. It is also called matasano. ; { . vy ze of. a A a 2, y reteeen” 9, ie a tf == 80 sa Small, greenish-yellow__---------------- 65.) Physic nut 2255 83 aa Small, greenish; small bush-_----------- 68 | Ciega-vista_....------- 86 Pons 1 F=Fruit; Fl=Flower; L=Leaves; S=Stem 71 (2 Identification Table—Poisonous Plants—Continued Plant part ! Description Ne. Common name N oa . | (ERE, 2 ei Bright red when young____.__.__---_--- - 61 | Poison sumac.___-_--- 79 | Da ee atk Cone Small, juicy, purple-red________.______- 67 | Moco tinto_-_.-_------ 85 | Fs | Small, very numerous, purple-red________ 67 | Moco tinto....._.-.--2 » 85 WHITE Bsc 2s oe Small; plant grown for fences__________- 60 | Poison spurge__-_--.- ue 78 | 7 A aac i Small; resembles sumac of U. S.___-___-__- 61 | Poison sumac____-_-__- 79 | Sagt Ma gE Small-’bush or tree! fo 202 2 Lae es See 63 | Black poison wood _-__- 81 Pb Bos .| Ashy gray bark; slender twigs___---.---- 64 | White poison wood- -_-_ 83 Ce Lats 2 Covered with whitish hairs....-----.---| 68 | Ctega-vista_._..-------- 86 Pie eye Many varieties; milky sap__.__._______- 69 | Stinging spurge_______- 87 RBS Nae te White underneath; large, stiff__..._.___- 72 | Trumpet tree _.--__- 90 Barkooi ee) Smooth; branches filled with ants_.__-_- 72 | Trumpet tree__----__- 90 YELLOW | enema ee eee) Orange-yellow berries; bush or tree_-__-_-_- 63 | Black poison wood_____ 81 Bl oe Small, greenish-yellow- See ON nls ec a 65 | Physic nut.2220_ 252 83 1 F=Fruit; Fl=Flower; L=Leaves; S=Stem Location table.—All these plants are poisonous in some way. Consult references. Location Table—Potsonous Plants ALL REGIONS Description Hus Common name ~ ae Fruit small capsule; two projections at base of leaf_____ 59 Olivo. {eee 77 Leaves very spiny; small greenish fruits__...._.._----_- 62 |’ Guao...o se eae 80 In British Honduras and Yucatan on mainland; reddish- 63 | Black poison wood__-_- 81 brown bark; orange-yellow fruit. COASTAL AREAS Forms dense thickets; smooth pale brown bark_____-_- 57 Manchineel_____ Pe 3 Location Table—Potsonous Plants—Continued DRY PLACES Description ai Common name pas Ree Bright red leaves; small white flowers.---------------- 61 | Poison sumac------+-- 79 Small or large trees; black berries-------------------- 66 | Huilihuiste.---------- 84 Small bush; leaves covered with white hairs. 220 5-22--- 68 | Ciega-vista..---------- 86 Pee eee HIGH ALTITUDES Ee eee eee eee eee ee eee ee ia (eae ee Bright red leaves; small white flowers. -_--- Gain ahs A ae Poison sumac. =------- 79 ee ee ee eee LIMITED Me oe Gray bark; white flowers; found only in British Hon- 64 | White poison wood-.--- 82 duras, Cuba, and Haiti. ee LOWLANDS ee a ee ca ee eee nae ee nee a Large thick stems; root above ground; skunk-like odor. - 56 | Dumb cane--------- Biles 74 - Giant tree; trunk covered with spines ; fruit explodes --- 58 | Sandbox tree_-..---=-- 76 Bush or small tree; greenish yellow Howers. a2 sees 65°) Physic nut.-2-=.--5-—- 83 Soft-stemmed plant; white flowers_------------------- 69 | Stinging spurge-------- 87 Several species; soft-stemmed or bushy tree-like kinds_- 20) Nettie tree. 2242622256 88 Hard pods with stiff hairs or Dristles.2 Save} 22} cee 7 le Cow-itch=. 2-2 2=22ss—- 89 Whitish trunk; large, stiff leaves; cord-like fruit. .------ "72 | Trumpet tree. --.----- 90 Me eee MIDDLE ALTITUDES Soft-stemmed plant; white flowers_-.----------------- 69 | Stinging spurge-------- 87 Several species; soft-stemmed or bushy tree-like kinds - - 70 | Nettle tree_..--------- 88 eee MOUNTAINOUS REGIONS ee eae eS Pale bark; small white flowers__.-------------------- 60-| Poison spurge--------- 78 Bush; small leaves; purple-red flowers; purple-red fruit_- 76 | Moco tinto...--------- 58 MU a ae Specific Poisonous Plants = Dieffenbachia POISON ee ee eee to When the stems or leaves of the dumb cane are broken, the — milky sap that.pours out.causes severe blistering and inflamma- j tion of the skin. The plant is common in the lowlands and wet — ground of Central America and southward. When cut, the { plant gives off an offensive skunk-like odor. The succulent stems, which are as thick as a man’s arm or larger, and a por- tion of the roots usually grow on a level with the ground. The dumb cane is called oté de lagarto in Panama and rabano or cimarron in Puerto Rico. —- (4 57. MancHINEEL Hippomane Mancinella POISON The milky sap of the manchineel causes blistering and severe inflammation of the skininsome persons. Smoke from the burn- ing wood may injure the eyes. This plant is found only along the ocean beaches where it often forms dense thickets. The small tree has pale brown, smooth bark and very small green flowers. ‘The fruit resembles a small green apple. It is also called manzanillo. 58. SanpBox TREE Hura crepitans POISON The milky sap of the sandbox tree causes severe irritation to the skin of the person coming in contact with it. Its woody fruits are dangerous to handle because when dry they explode with a loud report, scattering seeds violently in many directions. These seeds are also poisonous. ‘The giant sandbox tree is found growing at low altitudes, its trunk closely covered with short, sharp spines. ‘The fruit 1s about the shape of a small muskmelon or pumpkin. The milky -sap of the tree may be mixed with sand or a similar substance and thrown into quiet pools to stupefy the fish. Other names for the sandbox tree ~ are jabillo or javillo. ~ Pee ee eT (a 59. OLIvo Sapium spp. MAY BE POISONOUS It seems probable that there are variations in the species of this plant. In Mexico and Salvador the milky sap is considered very poisonous. Records show that the Indians used it to poison arrows. However, in Panama the coagulated sticky sap 1s chewed by boys who place it on twigs for the purpose of catching small birds. ‘The large or small olivo trees are found from Mexico to South America and in the West Indies. ‘The fruit is a small capsule. This plant may be easily recognized by the two small projections at the base of the leaf (somewhat exaggerated in the illustration shown here). The tree is called nipe in Panama; yos in Costa Rica; chilamate in northern Central America; gum tree, milk wood in Jamaica; lechecillo and hincha- nuevos in Puerto Rico; and piniche in Cuba. 565269—44——_6 x, A : SS . 8 Lag 60. Porson SpuRGE Euphorbia cotintfolia POISON _ The milky sap of the poison spurge in contact with the skin produces blisters and intense inflammation like that caused by | poison ivy. The growth is most common in the lower moun- tain regions from Mexico to Cuba and northern South America. This bush or small tree with close pale bark is often planted for living fence posts. Its sap is milky, and the flowers small and white. This is called yerba mala in Guatemala; barrabds in Costa Rica; and yerba lechera in Cuba. (aa 61. Poison Sumac Rhus striata POISON Contact with the leaves or sap of the poison sumac causes blistering and swelling that may persist for weeks. This plant belongs to the same family as the poison oak and poison ivy of the United States, and is closely related to the species of poison sumac found growing in the swamps of the United States. This plant grows on exposed dry hills at rather high altitudes in southern Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Colombia. It is a shrub or small tree with bright red young leaves and small white flowers. It is called amché and palo de compadre in Guatemala and hinchador in Costa Rica. 62. Guao Comocladia POISON The sap of some species of this plant causes blistering and prolonged inflammation of the skin similar to that caused by poison ivy. Numerous varieties grow in Mexico, Guatemala and the West Indies. On the mainland, they are not found below Guatemala. These bushy or small trees have long leaf stems but only a few or no branches. The leaves (which are often very spiny), are clustered at the ends of the branches, and the flowers are small and greenish. Alternate names are maiz, pelado (Puerto Rico); chinil, soliman (Guatemala); hincha- huevos (Mexico). , Rn a Pe ee ee ee a eae ea ee 63. Buack Potson Woop Metopium toxiferum POISON _ The sap of the black poison wood causes blisters and pro- longed inflammation similar to that of poison ivy of the United States. The smoke from the burning wood is as dangerous as the sap. ‘The tree is common in many parts of the West Indies, but on the mainland is known only in British Honduras and Yucatan. This bush or small tree has thin russet bark, small white flowers, and yellow-orange berries. In Jamaica it is called poison wood, burn wood; in British Honduras and Yucatan chechém; and in Cuba guao de costa. SSS ALSLLOG GES - a Pa . te “¥ > < se Be iE oe LS : 29 r 72. TRUMPET TREE Cecropia spp. CAUTION: The branches of the trumpet tree are hollow and are inhabited by swarms of small ants that bite painfully as soon as a leaf or branch is touched. ‘The long cord-like spines of the tiny fleshy fruits may be eaten, but they are a poor sub- stitute for food. This medium-size tree grows abundantly in the lowlands of tropical America. It has a smooth trunk nearly _ white in color, and a few branches near the top with large stiff leaves green on top and white on the underside. The trumpet tree gets its name from the fact that the hollow stems are used for making wood instruments. In Central America it is called guarumo and in Cuba and Puerto Rico yagrumo. | 298 Deg Ski Ne Lt Pn RO ‘ a ‘ eee ae , IIS rind . ok: Stas. se Lo 2 EI Appendix I Spanish Names of Common Food Plants Almond—almendra Apple—manzana Apricot—albaricoque Asparagus—esparrago Banana—banano; guineo Barley—cebada Beans, dry—frioles String beans—ejotes Beet—remolacha; acelga Blackberry—mora,; zarzamora Cabbage—te pollo; col | Caraway—culanire Carrot—zanahoria Cauliflower—coliflor Celery—apio , Cherry—guinda; cerexa Chestnut—castana Cloves—clavos Cocoanut—coco Chickpea—garbanzo Cinnamon—canela Corn—maiz ! Roasting ears—elotes Cucumber—?epino - Date—daiil any Eggplant—berenjena _ . Fig—hzgo Garlic—ajo Ginger—gengibre Gourd—calabaza Grapes—uvas Horse bean—haba Horse-radish—rdbano picante . Leek—puerro Lemon—limon real Lentils—lentejas Lettuce—lechuga Lime—limon - Mulberry—mora Muskmelon—melon Mustard—mostaza Nutmeg—nuez moscada Oats—avena Onion—cebolla Orange—naranja Parsley—perejil Peas—alberjas; petipoas Peach—durazno Pear—pera Pepper, black—pimienta Pepper, green—chile verde; chile dulce Pepper, red—chile; ajt Pepper—tabasco; chiltepe Peppermint—menta Pineapple—pina Plantain—pldtano Plum—ctruela Pomegranate—granada Potato—papa; patata Prunes—ciruelas pasas Pumpkin—ayote; sapuyo; calabazo Radish—rabano Raisins—pasas; uvas pasas Rice—arroz Sesame—ajonjolt Spinach—espinaca - Squash—ayote: sapuvo: calabazo Strawberry—fresa Sugar cane—cana de axzticar _ Sweet potato—camote; boniato (Cuba) 91 Tangerine—mandarina Tea—té Tomato—tomate Turnip—nabo Vanilla—vainilla Watercress—berro Watermelon—sandia Appendix II Master Identification Table—Edible and Poisonous q Plants BLACK Plant part ! Description Illus. Common name Page No. No. | Stag CR a ey Sizevand shape ofiolives 20262 is Soe 29. | Aceituno 2222002 aaa 38 | eee en ARE Resembles large plum_: 2-22 2 oe 28 Coco: plumes see ae 37 PRS Meatae Seeds red and black; like beans__________ 51 | Coral bean ee 64 5, i a A rae Almost black; should never be eaten_-___- 66, |: Huilihuistes 52 = ee 84 2 GS Saale a Covered with many blackish hairlike 38.) Yame. 5 2 ee 48 roots. , BROWN Bark. ‘Thinvreddish=browne:c teu eee ee. 63 | Black poison wood_-_-__. 81 ‘Daa ae Large; nearly.round:” it ek ee 33: | Breadimit S22) pees 42 BORE oui Nina Like ‘sweet potatoes_. 2). Gell so 2-8 . 39) ‘Cassava. 244s ee 49 | Ce Si le ae Kargevhard pods a2 2 a0 ae a se 48 | Courbarilic2 ee 61 Re ha tore Resemble Irish potatoes_.._..___.__-__-_- 37 4. Dasheen: 32 =e 44 | Se eg ae Biante fy cee te sce hay ans oe ha et 6° | Mamey 2226 22eao ee 15 MBark? oo! Pale brown, smooth; small tree-________- 57 | Manchineel______..--- 75 | Qasr en Hard outer shell; meat inside_________-__ 41 | Palm nuts2o.2 {ose 54 XF_.______| Five large pods; has large peedsy a 46 | Panama tree______--_-- | 59 | ey say vial Rough; very heavy; many large seeds_._- 47 | Provision tree____.__-- 60 | et eae eta Soft; scaly or smooth skin-.--_-_------- 8 | Sapodilla 22 3 ot Pa 17 | Ue ae SI Rough skin__._._-- ADE abies BU 7'| Sapote 2) ee 16 RE eg Brown and silky underneath___________- 10°|; Star-apple. 222222825 19 | Cea eae toe Rouehinind 2 ho. en nee Rich fo Maen 30 | Sunzapote: 2°22 aes 39 | aera 1 fend Go's (pean is, MCR a TOE Cy ens eae 23.'| Tamarind. 2 eae 32 i GREEN oe |e ene eae large; nearly wound o/-9 4. oes 33 | Breadfruit... 4. 3 ge | De Ae a Grows on trunk of tree..___------------ 11.) Cacaos 2 eee 2. Se ee Debye 2 bs Small, greenish; small bush._..-.------- 68 | Ciega-vista.....----2__} 86 ». 4g a ae Small: ereenigh soe ee ee 62.1 Nagao! es i Gear. 1 SUG ape Soft, strong musky odor._-.-.-.--...- 18 |} Guavas:. een oe 27 5: <\ alae Resembles small green apple....----.--- 57 .| Manchineel. =. eee cody ote 1 F=Fruit; Fl=Flower; L=Leaves;S=Stem; R= Root; X=Special precautionary measures. — 99 Py i 98 Master Identification Table—Edible and Poisonous Plants—Continued GREEN—Continued Plant Description Illus. Common name | Page renare P No. No. | eee Reetncatieliny io a ae kk oe 57:1 Manchineel: 2 2.228 22 | 75 Ms at RAMEEt NC y Mesias 2 a rk es be Migees sc: of a oe | 10 ee ee Grown like small “cabbage”-_._...-._.- An Palmvautet 53. zs- 51 LS aie ae eat Wirripe abit edible 220 Sow lol Ge MEAD AW oi’. eee e se, o 12 ee Minicieolorem sek eek eS 5. Passion wine... ss 14 ee ty fae ha iike-amicar Ofcom... 2 24 ne2 ego ok ek Die MANOA > 5. ee 30 > th ean Small sereenish yellow._-:--_-- 2-22 4-22 65r:) “Physic. mutts. ea 83 ae __.| Greenish white or purple.___.---------- 22” | Rose apples i. 2 31 Pees Soo Very large; has soft spines..........__.- 14 MESOULSGD seo te 23 | aeageee Pownce simalicapple 0 2 le Los TOswStar-apoles. 2) 19 1 Eee ait Greenishiyellow 222228) oe eke iS Sweetsops. 6 eee = 24 ae aw hin. membranous skin-2. /s-22.2.22_-5-. 16 | White sapote__________ 25 ORANGE 5,0 ei eam Meinnee-cellted: pod) Ges ke 32} keegan So oe 4] Flesh: 3". Resembles muskmelon or cantaloupe_-_-_-- Sp Paaveg rs pee eee 12 Be SMR ur Pee-shaped;. hard shell,.-20+ 2.2002. - Se Passion vines= 222 2-3 14 2) ol eA Both fruit and seed edible....._.-=..-.. Onl Cashewe oo 2 ee ete 18 F____..---_| Oval; covered with leaf scales_._...___-- 35°] Organ cactusc 2252-28 ae ee eee Vary large; pink and white_..........-.-. 47 \-Provision: tree... 5-2 60 PURPLE | 5h eg aa Small; pale purple or white____._______- 50 | Black nightshade___-_- 63 1 eR i Small; purple-black; many seeds________- 50 | Black nightshade____-- 63 tall a ea esenmples large plum_ oso. 0.-s2.2.2.4 285) Coce-plum = at Se 37 5, SaaS Wa Borders the leaves.___-__----- Se ste tale yg 36.7 2 Otome ost: Se Ate eee 46 |) Se ae May be greenish white also_____-__-_--- 22 \- Rose apple. 4.2 = 31 SIGS Sele CLUE SI EA SG (2 sa OS a ee a 26 4+ Sea erapes. ee 35 ON ala ae Wrote resembles plum. ..2. 2225... >. 17 | Spanish plum____----- 26 | ELE eae ae Resemibles small apple_(_22.2--.+--:2--- 16.) *Star-apple=: 2g 19 po eee Young leaves red or purple._--..-------- 30: | Sunzapote sae 39 EE eRe Winma tender sking. oo tee ee a 19: f Wald! icherrys.. 28 Bee ast Siall edible but sour.:. 22 2s2 leek 54 | Wild grape_..-.----.- 69 | AN eg Like flowers of beans; sometimes white---| 40 | Yam bean__..._------ 50 565269—44-_—__7 94 Master I dentification Table—Edible and Poisonous Planis—Continued : -RED PI Dasa Tilus. Cc Page ant part escription No. ommon name No. Bae SAG S300 Kaen A SY SN ac ape aD DRO ee So Lar 29:| Aceituno:2.2222 3.0 38 DORN fo aihree-celled pode seule aoa! ey eee 32 | Akee.{\25 25s eee 41 GR Soa as Size) and shape’of. pepper. 2.2 222 9] Cashews 2222s geee 18 ad 0) a pet Edible; cooked like string beans___-__-_-- 51 |, Coral beanass2sa4eeeam 64 DES el bese 8 May be red and black; like beans_______- 51 > Coral beans=22o3enoeee 64 | Ohl pecan heart-shaped, oie ei Re RN RE eee 13 |} Custard applet esses 22 0) RU aaa Sweetniwicy, Mesh afk 2 ke ae aia ee 1) Mango-252 222 eneee 10 3: Co ee Fomall auicy, purple-red) “iyo ese eee 67 |: Moco into. 2 85 Dee fey A Small, very numerous, purple-red________ .. "67. \ Meco tintos 225s. eee 85 | OS i eee -| When faded; yellow when young__._____- 25 | Nance. eee 34 Be ae Multicolored sci.2 oe Be Seeder ae 5 |- Passion vines. eee 14 pies 4. Bisel Very fleshy; single large seed___._______- 4) | Pejibaye 22) eee 55 | Ea a i Resembies.pineapples2 8 2 ee 2/7 | Pingwing2s 43 36 | ap ap ate Resempbles. pineapple.) 8.) on 27 |\-Pirel. 2 = eee 36 2,4] CSE gions Brieht red when young... 3)222 205. e 61 | Poison sumacs 2.25 oee fis | ek ee Mia aecat Sore ek a Se SA a AS i ee ea 26 | Séa grape. See eee ce iene 2 Dy Te PDR kek seta ia geen OV ay ete a ad a 26”) Sea grape:] 2 ee eee 35 | Peg SR epee al Fruit-resembles plum =... ! 3 oe ee 17-|: Spanish plum]. 26 Be ond ae Purplish maroon, or red. Aue erage eS 17° | Spanish ‘plum. 2 sears 26 | Eras hg: ae aie Young leaves red or purple___._.______- 30 | Sunzapote_____ af he nee 39 | dees Selpead Contain single ridged seed_____________- 4 | Surinam cherry_____-- 13 WHITE | oh Ll Ages ei Small: pale purple or whites.) 3° 2. Se 50 | Black nightshade_____- 63 Dae hee Smalle"bush:oritrees Je. | Sa ai 63 | Black poison wood__-_-_- 81 ] ea RC ae a Covered with green and white network___ lt Cacao: 22 eae 20 KGa 8 Covered with whitish hairs_.._.._.___-- 68 || -Cieza-visia®. 223. eee 86 | CUE SN ace ln Resemblesdarge plum .. tows vt eer ese 28 |. Coco ‘plum: {aa 37 Ey i as Me, | Gen a Re Ya RN gb PT AERATED oC 28.|, Coco plumi= 22 =heeeee 37 i Sa Ne ips Fru pale welloweie soee ei ti flute 12 |; Loquat.2 22 eee wan 1G erreur Multicolored) serps rit cote ee es eee 5 | Passion vine. 3. 22o2 se 14 TON or. Waxy with green center_____-___------- 21 |. Piftanona, 2-3 eee 30 D5) 2) ae ED Small; plant grown for fences..________- 60.| Poison spurge-- 2 22022 78 S41 Rar Small; resembles sumac of United States__ 61 | Poison sumac. 3-25 79 FR se. 2 2) Very. laree:ipinkiand white! 2222-250" 47 | Provision tree_._.__-_-- 60 Dh ee Se ard tcrisp Set le eas Fs es a gee 22.,| Rose applet: aaa 31 | Oh AE SL I Small, quicy. sliehtiy sours. 22-2455) 2 261. Sea erapes sae 35 |) is Nea ana Bell-shaped: edible 22 wal oo ee 44 | Spanish bayonet_____-- 57 PS) EE es Many varieties; milky sap____._.._--._-_ 69 | Stinging spurge_______- 87 ; i ea Re ae Whitish“‘bloom’? onviruit 2.2 2225-2 15 |- Sweet-sop.2. 22 Daas 24 =! Barks: 2s. Smooth; branches filled with ants________ 72|..Trampet.trees pee 90 95 Master Identification Table—Edible and Poisonous Plant part SSS eee Plants—Continued WHITE— Continued Daa Illus. Description i be White underneath; large, stiff__...______ 72 Small; leaves thick, stiff, rough_....____- 55 Ashy gray bark; slender twigs__.._-____- 64 Resembles chokecherry of United States__ 19 YELLOW Orange-yellow berries; bush or tree_._-__- 63 SIMA OUI oe es ON ie ea ie 45 Size and shape of peppers 220 ek e) Leathery, yellowish green._____..._____- 9 Looks like small Chinese lanterns________ 34 Solts.many, lange-seeds. oe 18 Somewhat downy surface__._.-__--___-_- 12 Mastesiitke apples 2 aeum yal i ea 25 ‘umn, nedyas they, fade. ou us Ns 25 Large; soit-stemmed plant_2. 2... ._ . 52 Like muskmelon or cantaloupe_________- 3 Pee-shaped: hardshell. 2. 2... S225. 5 Very fleshy; single large seed____________ 42 Small. greenish yellow.220 2.03 2. 65 Hesembles pineapple. 6 oe ee 27 Very small; form mats on ground________ 49 inland onic sated see owl eo a 22 Resemblesspluim: 2452 os oe 17 Greenish yellowe 2 Me is 15 Multicolored yellow and red__-________-_ 23 Resembles small apple_..._....__--__-_ 20 Thin, membranous skin 16 ee Trumpet tree________- Water vitiel..} 22.2.3 White poison wood- -_-_-_ Wid cherry.-. 3 se Black poison wood_-_-_- Bbreadnines 2 jee es Peyibaye: e248 Aw ee Physic nutics2 os 2 oe Ringe wine ss ae Pursleyo= 2 SP 3 ee Rose:apples i. ue. ae Spanish plum___—.__2- Syweet-sop oh ses 5 2222 ama rsd osteo ee ‘Thormapplen = 2 ess White sapote___..._-_- 81 58 18 18 43 77 21 34 34 65 12 14 55 83 36 62 31 26 24 32 29 25 Appendix III Master Location Table—Edible and Potsonous Plants ALL REGIONS D soe Illus. Page © escription No. Common name Neo Weedy plant; purple-black berries......-..:..-------- 50 | Black nightshade______ 63 In British Honduras and Yucatan on nae red- 63 | Black poison wood 81 brown bark; orange-yellow fruit. (POISON) Tall tree: round yellowish fruits. 222222) 45 | Breadnut_2.7o5-ueee 58 Brown, shreddy surface on fruit; filled with ““milk”____-_ 41 |~Cocoanut...J0 2 2s 51 Bush or tree with hard spines; red flowers_____-------- 51 | Coral bean (Caution) -_- 64 Leaves very spiny; small greenish fruits.._...___- tere ae 62 | Guao (POISON)---_--_- 80 Fruit is small capsule; 2 projections at base of leaf_____- 59 | Olivo (POISON)---__-_- 77 Leaves form cabbage heads; many varieties; cocoanut 41 | Palm nuts_222 Sa most important. Palm trees fruit yellow or red ee ae 42 | Péjyibaye.2 22. ee 52 Thick, fleshy stems and leaves; yellow flowers____.___- 49 | (Pursley 77) 23 ee 62 BUSHY PLACES Large woody vine; small white flowers_._..._...------ | 55 | Water vine_.__- re Bet 70 Large stems with sap; small purple fruit.__.._._..---- | 54.1 Wild grapes eee 69 COASTAL AREAS Fruits resemble plum; small white flowers__......-.-.- 28: | “Coco plum2. sees nee 37 Heart-shaped fruit; reddish yellow_._--___-____-___- = 13 | Custard apple a tee 22 Forms dense thickets; smooth pale brown bark_-_____- 57 | Manchineel (POISON)-_ 75 Pink and white flowers; rough brown fruit; swamps 47 | Provision tree..____-_- 60 and marshes along Atlantic. : Small tree or bush; young leaves red or purple________- 26:\ Seaigtapée.. eee 35 96 97 Master Location Table—Edible and Poisonous Plants—Con CULTIVATED ONLY Description ig Common name ag Fruit almost black; resembles olive.......-.---------- Zo | Areting, 22252 [eae 38 ruite-vary in size, shape, color.-.=/.2.5-2442-.-0_2-- Dts AoCadon = 0327 Fee 11 Round, green or greenish brown fruit._........--.---- 95 ty redoing. 1 ee 42 Smooth or spiny fruit; root like sweet potato_____-__.- 5s Wik nayotes £5 ok 66 Soft-stemmed plant; large yellow flowers__._.__._..__---- GG) ease he ee 65 Balm-tree, fruit yellow or ted2_/.20.4 2222-4 ak ADE Veipaye ss 55 iy hite bell-shaped flowers. 2 = 20k elo. Aaa ree 44 | Spanish bayonet______- 57 Fruit greenish; grows on tree trunk Fill: hs Ee rE 14 Wy Soursepss iGo st 23 Green or purple fruit resembles apple_..._.-...-_-._-- 10°} Starapplesci 22s oe 19 Bushy omemall tree; fruit tomato-red2._..2.25..... = 4. |: Surinam cherry_-...2-- 13 Fruit yellowish green with white “bloom”__._.__.-._-- 15 “1 Sweet-sop. . 22S 24 DRY PLACES Red or yellow fruit; resembles pepper..._.....--.----- 9 | Cashew (Caution)_____- 18 Small bush; leaves covered with white hairs__._______- 68 | Ciega-vista (POISON) _- 86 Smealvorlaree trees; black berries_2_..25i.0..-..-.2.- 66 | Huilihuiste (POISON)- 84 Flowers bright yellow; fruit yellow____...._.________- DS ANATICES 2 ae. ae ee 34 Caceres tonite oval, bright pinks. =. 2525.-- <5. S50 Orpeam cacthiss 35. at Bright red leaves; small white flowers...-_..---_.-__-- 61 | Poison sumac(POISON) 79 (gre Dear shaped iit. 3 ae oe 35 > Prcklypear. 32-2 <= at FORESTS are ards dark brown pods_..s-22<~---...22._~_-_ 48-1 Courbaril: 2.2 .<. 0. - 61 Palm; flowers grow in clusters like ear of corn________--_ 43° |> Pacaya palm-._..-22-_ 56 Browmish-green fruit with 5 pods_.- .. 22-2 ee ek 46 | Panama tree (Caution) - 59 Large stems with sap; small purple fruit..__.__.______- S441) Wild grapes lo ee 69 LIMITED | Gray bark; white flowers; found only in British Hon- 64 | White poison wood 82 duras, Cuba, and Haiti. (POISON) 98 Master Location Table of Edible and Poisonous Plants—Con. LOWLANDS Description Illus. Common name Page oO. No, Fratt,almost, blacks resembles olives: 32.02... c2e ee 29.-| Acettunee 2. seen auee 38 Red.onmorange podike trite oto 2042 She 2 ee ee 32 | Akee (Caution)____--=- 41 lowers andifruits grow on trunk G2 0222225222 Vig 11 (Cacao See 20 Harve hard, dark brown pods s_¢2 220162 2 2ee oe ee 48.) Courbartlizes2 22a ee see 61 ilard pods with stiff hairs or bristles.__.2 ~~. 2-22-22) 71 | Cow-itch (POISON)._-_- 89 Large thick stems; root above ground; skunk-like odor__ 56 | Dumb cane (Caution)... 74 Yellowish-green fruit with musky odor___------------- 18: | Guava <2 ee 27 Greenish or reddish fruitss. 2 oe) oo ed 1 | Mango (Caution)_...-- 10 Flowers; bright yellow; fruit yellow. ......-.-...-_-_- 25 |-Nancé..2 ee . 34 Several species; soft-stemmed or bushy tree-like kinds___ 70 | Nettle tree (POISON)- 88 Soft-stemmed plant; large yellow flowers__.._-..___-_- 52° \: Okra: i eee 65 Fruit resembles muskmelon or cantaloupe__._..._----- 3 i: Pabawe 22s aoe 12 Bush or small tree; greenish-yellow flowers-_.______--_- 65 | Physic nut (POISON)- 83 Resembles pineapple; ripe fruit yellow or red_________- 27 \ Pingwing eee eee 36 Finuit Detter tha ime wine sos yeu eee ets wear 27:\ Piro. 22 36 Whiteior yellow fruit is hard and crisp: 2 02 2308 28 3G 22: | Rose apple22: oon eee 31 Giant tree; trunk covered with spines; fruit explodes-____ 58 | Sandbox tree (POISON) 76 Brown-skin, of iruit scaly orismooth_2. 222.825.8222 28 8'| Sapodilla 222 aaa 17 Fruit like plum; yellow to deep red_______-_____------ 17 | Spanish plum 222222 26 Green or purple fruit, like apple______.__._-__-------- 10 -|-Star-apple_ 22 se aoe 19 Soft-stemmed plant; white flowers._____..-..-.-- rohit 69 | Stinging spurge (POISON). 87 Brown rough rind; large fruit; red leaves____--------_- 30 | Sunzapotes2 2 eee ee Small red and yellow flowers; fruit brown_....__.----_- 23° \ Tamarind) .03o ee 32 Whitish trunk; large, stiff leaves; cord-like fruit_._.____- 72 | Trumpet tree (Caution). 90 MIDDLE ALTITUDES Lone, flat pods; trees shade coflee bushes.2 2. 22-2222 22 24°). Ingact. 322 ae eee 33 Several species; soft-stemmed or bushy tree-like varieties 70 | Nettle tree (POISON)-_ 88 Fruit resembles muskmelon or cantaloupe__....------- 3°| Papawe 225.22 12 Fruit like plum; yellow to deep red_..-_-.__----_..--- 17 | Spanish plum__=__-__= 26 Soft-stemmed plant; white flowers.............-----.- 69 | Stinging spurge 87 (POISON) Master Location Table—Edible and Poisonous Plants—Con. MOUNTAINOUS REGIONS 4 Description yee Common name | ic " Yellowish-green fruit with musky odor__._________-__- 18 i Gudvae et sys ee 27 q mreemicn or redaieh fruits. 0 ole kel ce k 1 | Mango (Caution)_____- 10 “fi Bush; small leaves; purple-red flowers; purple-red fruit__ 76 | Moco tinto (POISON)-_- 85 4 Climbing plant; multicolored flowers; egg-shaped fruit 5) (ePassionovine. so...” 14 a with hard shell. : Green fruit size and shape of cob of corn____________-_- 21 | Pinanona (Caution)__~- 30 7 alc bapcorsmall white: flowers. 22.22. 222c2 bl 60'| Poison spurge j ; (POISON) A Tree with thorns; fruit resembles apple.___._.....__._- 20) | hor apple =. ss 282 29 : Yellowish-green fruit; thin membranous skin_._______- 1G icie Wihitte’sapote:.. 42222 == 25 | Maroon-purple fruit, size of sour cherry__...__....-__-- AON Wild chery. pes 28 RICH SOILS 5 ieatshaped fruit; reddish yellow. _2..-..-.-.22...2- P34 Custard apples 2. sss Ze Enaics ice plum; small white fowers_-.-._...-..-.-.- 28): Cocoupinmis ee Sr aee 37 WASTE GROUNDS FO Fruits green; like small Chinese lanterns ._..__________ 34 | Ground cherry.__----- 43 Thick, fleshy stems and leaves; yellow flowers _________ 49h Pursley-s2ea" os= aes 62 WILD Piewil skin ofiruit scaly or smooth. .._. 22.025 .c.4_. Sula Sapodillant 2-25 eee 17 Fruit has rough brown skin and one large seed________- Tei | SApOlek =. sees eee 16 Fruit yellow green with white “‘bloom”?._______-__-__- 15> \,Sweet-sop/ 225.252 24 Sule round fruit with tiny hole‘at top._.5._--2-. 2... Be Willd) fies ho oak Seka 40 Index opie, custard 22 9 Sota e awe eae ee a aa wr ee —— wee ew ew ee He Or ew eer se ee Black nightshade Black poison wood Cherry, ground Cherry, surinam GEE ee re Pree Page Dumb cane. 2)... 3 74 Fidible fruits... 3 ee 5 Edible greens. .issi ey ee utsee 51 Edible roots2:_"_- 3. 2a 45 Edible seeds__ 2. =o ee 51 Fig, wild2-2. 2. 2a 40. Fruits, edible: 20... 22 ee 5 Aceituno? 2. 12329 ee 38 Akee?.. 3) 2°) ee 4} Avocado. ....5 25 11 Breadfruit: 202335 eee 42 Breadnutoc{ 245 58 Cacao_) of ee 20 Chayotec. 4. =. 66 Coco plum 220) 3 eee 37. Custard.apple_ 2) aa 22 Ground cherry. 43 Guava..222 2) eee 27 Ingalo. Use 33 Loquat...- {230 eee 21 Mamey..>s. 2 ee 15 Mango. 2-...- 2s. 10 Nance. is. 70. See tee Organ cactus_..os oe 44 Passion vinés. 20.29 see 14 Pinanona...2. 2. see 30 Pingwing_-..- ole 36 Pires... ee eee 36 Prickly ‘pear... 2) ee 44 Sapodilla: 20. tee 17 Sapote.< .u¢223 ae 16 Sea: grape... 62 ee 35 Soursop. 2.22.0" ee 23 Spanish plum ss. 22 ope 26 Fruits, edible—Continued. Page peorepple so ele Se 19 pumeapote 2. Ss 39 Pare Cherry. 13 PrcetsOp26 2026 ol 24 Tamarimg. 22. Bete We t50 a2 Mramiavappie 92-2 22 29 Mipuimperireese. | 6222s 90 Wee Sapote. 2.0200 oe 25 OG erapes 2s Yee 69 ioleem spoon. s..-.-..--..-2 34. TSE LBS. Le SS ae 14 Meee sen ee ts 35 Mere wide. 070 oo le 69 fereens, edible. 2... 2. - 51 igek nightshade. _. 2.2. 63 ys 49 open 2 66 Meera eaten 2 ec eS 64 Mreieene a 2 47 ee 65 Bere ek 46 Poewa palm... eS 56 Peace 54, 55, 56 Pewee 82. lk 36 ee eS ok 36 Perens ee ces SS 62 Spasich bayonet: -.2. 1... nalh ewan 6 bloc se 2 empresa. oils oo 50 Bene cherry ek 43 (2 Se a eee ga 80 LT) a ie meee 27 Preiememiee a ee 77 NOR ek 29 Peer wy igi 26 Premieres eS 84 Pemeream) beans... 2.522 33 Identification tables____ 5, 45,51, 67, 71,92 SE 44 | Page || 27 ew i Nea dle te eat pada tess BNE 33 Leaves, edible. (See “‘greens.’’) Location tables._2.. 8, 52, 68, 72, 96 Lib oy a1 ae oe ce aR ec EC 21 Apes el Sint ek Se ery ae 15 Nia melnaiieely ye pee ee 75 JLT geo SOE fee’ RE i a tl 10 SWiamzaniias 4 po EE: 29 Roc onIATO mia re NE). oe ae ae 85 Monkey tambrin______- See EY 33 Whiskireloinj. 8h ere 2 12,76 IN anice sept e F Ot pe oad 34 INatIVes..ad Vice O12 22-22 2 Niettle. tree ase. Pek 2 eee 88 IN Goat i ee ya ee he 44 Ga es Sonepat CRON cele whe Breen A AE ene 65 es i ss gee Se ee 38 Cli cre ee gs eee ene 77 Creda Cactis: iss tao wwe Pee 44 Oro a oot ee ee ee eee 46 Pacayay paling es. .:- =) 5 2aee ee 20 Dumb canes. 28. oe kG 74 |). 0° Cashew! 32 18 ea Sie oe tine tas 80 Chayote_._ 2 >a 66 Fiuilihuiste..22 70-02 SS 84. Courbaril_-- ee 61 Manchinec! 22). 3 os 1S Palm nuts: __- 2222 ae 54 NIGEG Tinto ee ee es Q5 Panama tree... #2 ae 59 Nemo tee (oe. lon Gas QQ Passion vine. . 2 )223aeame 14 liners he Ve es 77 Pejibaye.._2-_ == eae 55 OE ee eee 46 Provision: trees22222 6s.ee 60 Panama tree sigue fa fie 59.| Soursop_..-. =.) 00 23 Physic nut a ee Oe e3 | Spanish. bayonet.<-22) eae Sane Poison spurge cae 79 |. Spanish plum_.._ 77 iee=eaeee 26 Porson sumac 22.) 79 | Star-apple-. 0-3: 505 eae 19 Sandbox tree. 2) eo Ba Ueto 76 | Stinging spurge:.. 87 Stiiging spurge. 22 ea. 87 | Strimg beans as tesee ----------- Ghs ‘rompeét trees... se 90 | Sugar-apple.._5- 752 24 White poison wood_.____-- 89 | Sunzapete =e eee aE oison-spurcet 2) 2. e ere. 7@ | Surinam cherry_°2 222 a eee 13 Poison SUIMAC. 2 oe he ee 79 | Sweet-sop.— 5.245 eee 24 Patitococ oath 47.48.49. 55. 66 | Lamarind._/.21)5 eee 32 prickly pears he ok la oe alos 44 |. Thorn apple.---2.2- ee 29 IP LOVISION-(POCe a, eS 60 | Trumpet tree-=__._- 3.3500 eae Pan Tsliaiae nk Be gst wun ee ta 62. | Vitamins._s)_-2/_ 2 Parsley: uhh ee ee 62 | Water substitute plants________ 67 ocisnanble. ce ena eie 46 Cocoanut: palm... eee 54 ee ee ro ce yr 49 Organ cactus..2225 eee 44 Chorot lve Gad 66 Water vine... oe 70 Daten tt ee sie Sea et 47 Wild grape.__--_---------- 69 a ae ben eo buee 46 , Water Vine.) 1 70 ia Wild-cherry..<2) eae ca ee PATA enna Bahl ie Ca 48 Yam bean 50 ae ae is Tix Gane arc erat Wild grape_...._ 20. ee Rose apple_------------------- 31 | White poison wood__.-.-.------ 82 PanGgwox treescan waleskil ey ee 76 | White sapote._..) 22s). ae 25 SOA mat a! Merce dey ise Sd ark eee 17) Var te 48 “SYEL O1G (CS am i aS Sg 16-1} Yam bean_._. 24.22.52 eee 50 Sapote whites S021. ae 25 | Yuca_...) 2... 2 49 Beareia enn FE ya Syne 35 | Zapote._-_ 4.2 2 16, 17 a) ‘ ri & - 4 - i 4 ; a \ Fe ‘ : ae * . Py : » ~ 4 ny . ; - J F ¢ ‘ - ‘ - ¥ > J = \ . = iS 2 = . 2 : =) — , P é ~ “ 5 a 2 ~~ ‘ a ’ 4 F i - ? J 7 - ‘ 7 , 3 z "4 ’ hi { x s ~ » “e" - x H ~ , = - s ~ : ‘ 4 & r sy - ¢ re 2 ~ °, - eter te “= ‘ eh ; 3 Z To x rd 4 eee _ at ect ele ‘te 4 : pe ot