Manchineel (Hippomane mancinella)
Care, watering, light and tips for Manchineel on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Euphorbiaceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 10 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 10–38 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Manchineel
The manchineel tree (Hippomane mancinella) is an extremely toxic tropical tree native to the Caribbean coasts and Florida. It grows up to 15 meters tall with glossy leaves and fruits resembling small green apples. Although beautiful, its location must be carefully marked and avoided by humans and animals.
Native range
Coastal regions of the Caribbean, Florida, Central America, and northern South America.
Care tips
It is crucial to understand that this plant is extremely dangerous and not recommended for domestic cultivation or in transit areas. All its components, including sap, bark, and fruit, are highly toxic and can cause severe burns or even death. In its natural habitat, it thrives in full sun and sandy coastal soils with good moisture, but any contact must be avoided at all costs.
How to save a dying Manchineel
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or whitish leaves, leaf drop, milky sap causing irritation.
- First aid
- DO NOT TOUCH! Wear eye protection and thick gloves. Isolate the plant. If contact, wash with soap and water.
- What kills it
- Handling without protection, exposure to humans/animals, attempting transplant without proper gear.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if handled with extreme caution and isolated, but it's a very high-risk plant.