Byrsonima crassifolia aka Golden Spoon

Byrsonima crassifolia is called nance or golden spoon. It belongs to the Malpighiaceae family. Its native range runs from Brazil and Peru north to Mexico. It grows in open pine woods, grasslands, and lowland thickets. These sites include both damp and dry ground. People gather its fruit from wild trees. They also grow it in Mexico and Central America.

This slow-growing plant forms a large shrub or small tree. Its rounded crown is often open rather than dense. Sources give heights of 20–33 feet [6–10 metres]. One lists a larger size of 39 feet [12 metres]. That source gives a spread of 33 feet [10 metres]. Poor, sandy ground can keep plants much smaller. There, shrubs may reach just 7–10 feet [2–3 metres]. The trunk is short, and the bark contains much tannin. Sources differ on whether it keeps or sheds its leaves.

Bees visit the flowers; one source also lists birds as pollinators. The round fruit turns orange-yellow and has a thin skin. Inside, white flesh surrounds one large stone with one to three seeds. The flesh is juicy and oily, with a strong smell. Its taste ranges from mild to sweet, sour, or cheese-like. People eat the fruit fresh or cook it. Uses include desserts, jam, soup, and frozen sweets. Fermented fruit makes a drink called chicha. The fruit also yields an edible fat.

Nance needs sun and grows in tropical and subtropical climates. It tolerates settings from wet lowlands to near-desert areas. It accepts sandy, loamy, and clay soils with good drainage. It also grows in poor soil and across varied pH levels. Fertile soil with added organic matter can improve fruit yields. Established plants withstand drought and prefer dry to moist ground. PFAF lists USDA zones 9–12 but warns that frost harms it. Its sources disagree about tolerance of coastal exposure.

Garden uses include a small flowering tree or backyard fruit tree. It can also grow in large planters or along streets. The plant attracts wildlife and helps restore poor, burned land. Fallen leaves help build soil fertility. People use its tannin-rich bark for tanning and traditional medicines. These include treatments for gut complaints, fever, and skin wounds. Such uses do not establish medical safety or benefit. Fruit provides dye, and green fruit can supply ink. Leaves and stems placed in water can stun fish. The sources suggest saponins may explain this effect. That warning does not establish safety for people or pets.