Parmentiera aculeata aka Candletree

Parmentiera aculeata, or cow okra, belongs to the Bignoniaceae family. Its native range runs from central Mexico south to Honduras. It grows in thickets and lowland forests, both moist and dry. It also occurs beside rocky streams and along disturbed roadsides. These habitats include sites near 3,940 feet [1,200 metres] above sea level. People gather its fruit and other useful parts from wild trees. They also grow it for food and shade, especially in Mexico.

This spiny evergreen tree reaches about 11–33 feet [3.5–10 metres] tall. Some trees grow larger, though the sources give no upper limit. Kew also records its form as a shrub or tree. Its evergreen leaves provide cover throughout the year. People plant it near homes to provide shade and fruit. Its spines are a feature to consider when choosing a site. The wood also serves as fuel.

The tree can bloom throughout the year, and bats pollinate it. Plants must reach a large size before they start flowering. Trees raised from seed may first bear fruit at three to five years. The yellow fruits curve into a shape like a banana. They measure about 0.36–0.56 feet [0.11–0.17 metres] long. Their flesh is sweet but has many fibres. Accounts compare the taste with sugar cane. People eat the fruit raw, cook it, or preserve it. They may fry it or fill it with savoury foods. Its appeal varies, though it provides food where other fruits are scarce.

In cultivation, give this tropical tree sun and soil that drains well. It grows in regions with moderate to high rainfall. Its wild habitats span lowlands and sites at moderate heights. These records describe a tropical plant rather than a cold-climate tree. The supplied sources give no frost limit or hardiness zone. Seed is a recorded means of propagation.

Traditional medicine uses the roots, bark, branches, leaves, flowers, and fruit. Reported uses include remedies for colds, fluid retention, and diabetes. These reports describe folk use, not proof of safe treatment. Useful Tropical Plants lists no known hazards. That statement does not establish safety for every use or for pets. Its account reports no major threats to the species. It cites a 2019 IUCN assessment of Least Concern.