Sapindaceae, Melicoccus bijugatus, Mamoncillo, Spanish lime
2009 June 22
Native to the Caribbean islands, Colombia, Venezuela, and parts of Central America, the Spanish Lime, (Mamoncillo, as it is more commonly called) is widely enjoyed throughout these regions, but practically unknown in other areas of the world.
The evergreen tree can get quite large (20 m), with a straight trunk and a broad, rounded canopy. The fruit is round or slightly oval with a somewhat brittle green shell. Unbeknownst to many, the Mamoncillo seed can be roasted and eaten, and is quite tasty, similar in taste to peanuts.