Also known as Breadnut · Cow Tree · Mayan Breadnut
Breadnut (Brosimum alicastrum), a tropical tree, offers nutritious seeds resembling nuts and starchy leaves, historically vital for sustenance.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
100% intensity
Requires full sun for optimal growth and fruit production.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, allowing top layer to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
High
100% intensity
Thrives in warm, tropical climates; sensitive to frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Breadnut trees prefer consistently moist soil, especially during establishment and fruiting. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry.
Reduce watering slightly during cooler, dormant periods, but never allow the soil to become completely parched. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Pruning is mainly for shaping and removing dead or damaged branches. For younger trees, prune to encourage a strong central leader.
Mature trees benefit from thinning out overcrowded branches to improve air circulation and light penetration, aiding fruit production and disease prevention.
Breadnut can be propagated through seeds, which require stratification and careful handling. Grafting is also a common method for commercial production, ensuring desired fruit characteristics.
Air layering can be successful for obtaining new plants from mature, established trees.
Young breadnut trees grown in containers will require repotting every 1-2 years as they outgrow their current pot. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot in spring before active growth begins.
Mature trees are best planted directly in the ground and do not require repotting.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Bread Nut (Brosimum alicastrum)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Genus | Brosimum |
| Species | Brosimum alicastrum |
Similar in genus Brosimum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
