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Cow Tree

Brosimum utilefam. Moraceae
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edibletall treesedibleedible fruitnative amshade toleranttree
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Brosimum utile (Cow Tree) — botanical photograph
Pl. 86A0 — Brosimum utile
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Overview

The Cow Tree, scientifically known as Brosimum utile, is a large tree native to the tropical regions of Guyana, Suriname, Bolivia, Brazil, and Colombia. It thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soils that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This tree, which can grow up to 25 meters tall, is notable for its edible fruit, sap, seeds, and milk, making it a valuable resource in local ecosystems and communities. The Cow Tree is native to the Guyana and Suriname regions and has been introduced to other areas such as Bolivia, Brazil North, Brazil Northeast, Brazil West-Central, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, French Guiana, Honduras, Panamá, Peru, and Venezuela. Its adaptability and utility have earned it recognition as an important plant in these regions. While primarily used for its edible parts, the Cow Tree also has potential for fiber, lumber, textiles, and lighting, making it a versatile resource in cultivation.

Quick answers

What is Cow Tree?

The Cow Tree, scientifically known as Brosimum utile, is a large tree native to the tropical regions of Guyana, Suriname, Bolivia, Brazil, and Colombia. It thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soils that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).

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Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

The Cow Tree (Brosimum utile) thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions, with a recommended temperature range of 10-12. This tree can grow up to 25 meters tall and is native to Guyana and Suriname. For propagation, it can be grown from seeds. The Cow Tree is versatile, providing edible fruit, sap, seeds, and milk.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
25.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Cow Tree for the first time

8steps

Start with a simple and easy-to-grow Cow Tree for your beginner garden.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Cow Tree seeds or saplings, potting soil, containers if planting in pots.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant during the rainy season when moisture is abundant.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay soils. Ensure containers are large enough for the tree's growth.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds in warm weather or start them indoors and transplant when they have several leaves.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Place in a sunny spot to encourage growth.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun, regular watering, and occasional pruning for shape. Monitor for pests like mealybugs.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune young trees to establish a strong structure; harvest fruit when ripe but avoid over-harvesting saplings.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in too small of a container, neglecting sun exposure, and not providing enough support for the tree as it grows.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:FruitSapSeedMilk
Edible uses: Drink
Other uses:FiberLumbertextilesLighting
Contextrange · companions · related
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Distribution

14 native · 13 introduced
Distribution across2 continents· 14 native· 13 introduced
Asia1 region
introduced (1)Vietnam
Americas18 regions
native (10)BoliviaColombiaCosta RicaEcuadorFrench GuianaGuyanaHondurasPeruSurinameVenezuela
introduced (8)BoliviaColombiaCosta RicaEcuadorFrench GuianaHondurasPeruVenezuela
Broader regions
native:Brazil North, Brazil Northeast, Brazil West-Central, Panamá
introduced:Brazil North, Brazil Northeast, Brazil West-Central, Panamá
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Brosimum utile (Cow Tree) — botanical photograph
Cow Tree (Brosimum utile)
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See also

8 related
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Explore further

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