CUAJILOTE --Parmentiera aculeata--

AKA cow okra, rare and unusual Mexican native tree with edible fruit, up to 30' tall. Fruit is antioxidant, juice has been found to promote Lactobacillus (the good gut bacteria). Often planted as an ornamental, shade tree and live fence throughout its native range. Its fruits are edible and are eaten either raw or cooked, and are sometimes pickled or made into preserves. Its flavor is reportedly similar to sugarcane. Used in traditional medicine and with substantial evidence of being helpful in diabetes, kidney disease, and breast cancer. Prefers well-drained, sunny areas with medium to high watering, needs to be planted in sheltered areas to protect from hard freezes.