Maricao

Frost Tolerance: Tender in Phoenix. Hardy to 32°F (0 °C)

Sun Exposure: Full sun

Origin: Mexico to Venezuela

Growth Habits: Tree up to 70 feet tall (20 m)

Propagation: Seeds

The "Maricao," native to many islands of the West Indies and to continental tropical America, forms a medium-sized to large tree that sometimes reaches a height of 70 to 80 feet. The elliptic or lanceolate leaves are 2 to 4 inches in length (5-10 cm) by about 1 inch (2.5 cm)in width. The leaves are pubescent when young but nearly free of hairs when mature.

Blooming Habits:
The small yellowish-gold flowers are produced in terminal racemes from June until September. The young twigs and the inflorescences are clothed with reddish hairs.

Fruiting Habits:
The globose fruits, which mature in the autumn and winter, reach a diameter of up to I inch (2.5 cm), and contain 3 seeds. The juicy pulp is too acid for eating out of hand but can be used to make jelly or jam.

Culture:
The golden spoon is propagated by seeds. The plants are able to thrive on unproductive soil if it is well drained.

Propagation:
The "maricao" is propagated by seeds which remain viable for at least 1 year.