Mimusops balata aka Mimusops

Mimusops balata is a tree in the Sapotaceae family. It is native to Mauritius and Réunion. The RHS lists beefwood as a common name. Its name can cause confusion with an American tree. That other tree, Manilkara bidentata, supplies balata gum. The African species described here is a separate plant. Its uses should not be confused with that gum source.

Useful Tropical Plants lists a height of 49 feet [15 metres]. Its account also records trees reaching 66 feet [20 metres]. Growth is slow, but the tree supplies valued timber. It grows in humid forests up to 3,609 feet [1,100 metres]. In drier areas, it tends to grow beside streams. These records describe its habitat rather than tested garden needs. In Réunion, people plant it for ornament and habitat restoration.

The fruit is a berry with sweet, pleasant-tasting flesh. People eat the pulp raw and gather fruit from wild trees. Each bright green berry is round or shaped like a pear. Fruits measure about 0.16–0.23 feet [0.05–0.07 metres] across. Each holds between one and seven seeds. The tree also contains latex, though the source gives no use. Useful Tropical Plants reports no known hazards. This does not establish safety for pets or every plant part.

People have cut the tree heavily for building timber. Its reddish-brown heartwood has a fine grain and considerable weight. The wood is hard and lasts well, including outdoors. Uses include roof shingles, joinery, furniture, and wooden toys. Local people also gather the tree for traditional medicine. They boil its leaves to make an astringent preparation. Reported uses include diarrhoea, dysentery, and bleeding. These are records of traditional use, not proof of treatment benefits.

Seed propagation needs time and care with young roots. Sow seeds in nursery beds or separate pots. Press each pointed end into the soil. Use a depth of 0.07–0.10 feet [0.02–0.03 metres]. Sprouting starts around eight weeks and continues for four more. Nicking the rounded seed end can help seeds sprout sooner. Young plants soon form a long taproot. Move pot-grown seedlings to their planting site while still small. Nursery-bed plants can remain there for eight to nine months. Seeds can keep for six months in sealed containers at room temperature.