Cow Tree
Manilkara huberi
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Pl. 3A67 — Manilkara huberi
Manilkara huberiManilkara huberiManilkara huberiManilkara huberiManilkara huberiManilkara huberiManilkara huberiManilkara huberiManilkara huberiManilkara huberiManilkara huberiManilkara huberiManilkara huberiManilkara huberi
IOverview
Overview
The Cow Tree, scientifically known as Manilkara huberi, is a large tree native to the tropical regions of Brazil and neighboring countries such as French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, and Venezuela. This tree thrives in full sun and prefers moist conditions with light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil types. It can grow up to 40 meters tall and is hardy in zones 10-12. The Cow Tree is notable for its edible fruit and sap, making it a valuable resource in its native range. Its distinctive feature includes the large size and the potential use of both its fruit and sap as food sources.
Quick answers
What is Cow Tree?
The Cow Tree, scientifically known as Manilkara huberi, is a large tree native to the tropical regions of Brazil and neighboring countries such as French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, and Venezuela. This tree thrives in full sun and prefers moist conditions with light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil types.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
The Cow Tree thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 10-12, making it suitable for tropical gardens. Propagate through seeds or cuttings. This tree grows to a height of 40 meters and produces edible fruit and sap, contributing both ornamental value and potential utility in the garden.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
40.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Cow Tree for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting process to grow your Cow Tree.
- 1
What you'll need
Cow Tree seeds or saplings, potting mix suitable for fruit trees, and a container if starting in a pot.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant during the rainy season when moisture is abundant, typically from April to June in tropical regions.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay soils. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Plant seeds 2-3 cm deep in the soil. For saplings, dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Place the plant in partial shade to avoid direct sunlight.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun once established, regular watering, and occasional pruning to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Focus on pruning during the dormant season to remove dead or weak branches. Fruit harvesting is not typically recommended for beginners.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun immediately after planting, and neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSap
Edible uses: The fruit of the Cow Tree (Manilkara huberi) is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. The sap is also utilized, often collected and consumed directly or processed into beverages.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
7 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
7 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 7 native
Americas4 regions
native (4)French GuianaGuyanaSurinameVenezuela
Broader regions
native:Brazil West-Central, Brazil North, Brazil Northeast
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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