Leite de amapa
Brosimum parinarioidesfam. Moraceae
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Pl. A0B4 — Brosimum parinarioides
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IOverview
Overview
Leite de amapa, scientifically known as Brosimum parinarioides and belonging to the Moraceae family, is a large tree native to regions in Bolivia, Brazil North, Colombia, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, and Suriname. This tree thrives in full sun and prefers moist conditions with light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil types. It can grow up to 32 meters tall and is known for its edible sap and seeds, which are often referred to as "milk." The tree's distinctive feature lies in its ability to produce a milky white liquid from the trunk, making it both ornamental and useful for food.
Quick answers
What is Leite de amapa?
Leite de amapa, scientifically known as Brosimum parinarioides and belonging to the Moraceae family, is a large tree native to regions in Bolivia, Brazil North, Colombia, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, and Suriname.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Leite de amapa thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions with a temperature range of 10-12. This tree grows to a height of 32 meters and produces edible sap and seeds. For successful cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist while providing ample sunlight.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
32.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Leite de amapa for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple sapling for your first attempt at growing Leite de amapa.
- 1
What you'll need
A young sapling or seedling, suitable potting mix, and a large container.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when temperatures are consistently above 10°C (50°F).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light, medium, or heavy texture. Ensure the pot has drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant a sapling into your prepared container, ensuring it is planted at the same depth as in its original pot.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in full sun for best growth.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Fertilize with a balanced plant food every few months.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches as needed. Sap can be collected from mature trees but is not commonly harvested.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in unsuitable soil types, and neglecting sunlight are common pitfalls.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:SapSeedMilk
Edible uses: Gum
Other uses:LumberGumtextiles
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
7 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
7 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 7 native
Americas6 regions
native (6)BoliviaColombiaFrench GuianaGuyanaPeruSuriname
Broader regions
native:Brazil North
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Moraceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Moraceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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