The World’s Deadliest Tree
The Manchineel Tree
The manchineel tree is also known as “the tree of death”, “beach apple tree”, “little apple” and “apple of death”. It’s scientific name is Hippomane mancinella meaning “horse madness”.
Deadliest Tree
The manchineel is listed in the Guinness World Records as the most dangerous tree in the world.
All parts of the tree (fruit, sap, leaves, bark) are extremely poisonous. Each part contains a different poison. It causes bleeding, blisters, inflammation, burns, trouble breathing, slowed heartrate, low blood pressure, shock and if not treated immediately, death. One apple can kill 20 people. Ingestion of its “apple” causes blisters of the mouth and esophagus, intense burning, severe swelling of the throat, and damage to the digestive tract.
Can’t Touch This
You can’t even touch this tree. Its sap causes blisters everywhere it touches and blindness (sometimes permanent) when it gets in the eyes.
You’re warned not to take shelter under it in the rain. As the rain collects the tree’s poisons, each drop also causes skin blisters.
Cutting it down releases poisonous aerosols that burn the lungs. Burning it releases poisons in the smoke that burns the lungs and eyes.
Where it Grows
It loves sandy beaches and brackish water and areas around the Gulf. It grows in the Bahamas, Carribean, Mexico, Central America, northern South America and parts of Florida. Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences state that all parts are poisonous and interaction with or ingesting of any part of this tree can be lethal.
The state lists it as an endangered species.
More Oddities
It is believed that Juan Ponce de Leon was killed with an arrow dipped in its sap.
If all of this isn’t strange enough. For some reason the Spiny-tailed Black Iguana seems immune to its poisons. It eats its fruit, hangs out on its limbs and spends time with its family there.
Important Information. I am a clinical nutritionist and holistic health practitioner. I am not a medical doctor. This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for proper medical treatments or care. Always consult with your medical doctor before making any changes to your diet, lifestyle, or fitness programs.
