Cow Tree
Brosimum utilefam. Moraceae
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Pl. 86A0 — Brosimum utile
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IOverview
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 its native range. Its adaptability and utility have earned the Cow Tree recognition as an important plant in local ecosystems and communities.
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).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
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 temperature range of 10-12. This tree grows to about 25 meters tall and produces edible fruit, sap, seeds, and milk. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist for best results.
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
What you'll need
Cow Tree seeds or saplings, potting soil, containers if planting in pots.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant during the rainy season when moisture is abundant.
- 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
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in warm weather or start them indoors and transplant when they have several leaves.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Place in a sunny spot to encourage growth.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun, regular watering, and occasional pruning for shape. Monitor for pests like mealybugs.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune young trees to establish a strong structure; harvest fruit when ripe but avoid over-harvesting saplings.
- 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.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSapSeedMilk
Edible uses: Drink
Other uses:FiberLumbertextilesLighting
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
14 native · 13 introduced
Distribution
14 native · 13 introducedDistribution 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
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
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 86a0a635-ceed-48e5-8371-15b0b9d0d373
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