Manchineel
hippomane mancinella
Also known as: ["Manzanilla de la muerte","Tree of death","Beach apple"]
Overview
A highly toxic tree native to coastal regions of Florida, the Caribbean, Central America, and northern South America. All parts of the tree are toxic, and contact with its sap can cause severe skin irritation.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Hippomane |
| Botanical Name: | Hippomane mancinella |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: coastal areas or open, sunny locations
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: high
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"20–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly sandy soil with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to remove dead/diseased parts; light pruning can be done every 2–3 months.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning unless corrective.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; ensure adequate light indoors with supplemental grow lights if needed.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; avoid sudden light changes; provide shade during peak summer heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-drained, sandy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pH is within preferred range.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); prefers stable conditions; sensitive to frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula for overall health.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering; seeds are less common due to toxicity and difficulty.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut below a node.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone to improve success rate.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment may take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; maintain high humidity; avoid overwatering; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a node or branch junction; remove crossing or inward-growing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased growth, and encourage bushier growth; focus on structural improvement.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy or active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growth period begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn yellow or drop; growth slows or halts; risk of frost damage or death in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop; may cease flowering; soil may dry out too quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but ensure drainage; avoid placing near heat sources.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Highly ToxicThe manchineel tree poses a significant threat to cats. The toxins in the plant can cause severe gastrointestinal upset, neurological issues, and skin irritation upon contact. Due to their curious nature, cats may be at risk of accidental ingestion or contact, making strict avoidance essential.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if any part is ingested or if sap comes into contact with skin or eyes
Dogs
Highly ToxicThe manchineel tree is extremely toxic to dogs. Ingestion of any part of the plant can lead to severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms, while contact with the sap can cause severe skin irritation and blistering. The toxins can cause systemic effects that may be fatal if not treated promptly.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if any part is ingested or if sap comes into contact with skin or eyes
Humans
Highly ToxicThe Hippomane mancinella, commonly known as the manchineel tree, is one of the most toxic trees in the world. Its sap, leaves, and fruits contain potent toxins that can cause severe physiological effects upon contact or ingestion. The toxins interfere with cellular processes, leading to systemic inflammation, neurological disturbances, and severe gastrointestinal distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if any part is ingested or if sap comes into contact with skin or eyes
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Manchineel tree safe to plant in a garden?
A: No, the Manchineel tree is extremely dangerous and should only be planted by experts in remote, uninhabited areas due to its high toxicity.
Q: What happens if you eat a fruit from the Manchineel tree?
A: Eating any part of the tree, including its fruit, can be fatal due to its highly toxic nature.
Q: Can the sap of the Manchineel tree cause harm?
A: Yes, contact with the sap can cause severe blistering and irritation, and inhaling smoke from burning wood can lead to respiratory issues.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
