Spondias mombin aka Yellow Mombin

Spondias mombin, or yellow mombin, belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. Other names include jobo, hog plum, and Jamaica plum. Its native range runs from Mexico through tropical America. It grows in humid lowland forests and areas of regrowth. Some of these forests stay green throughout the year. Others lose part of their leaves during dry spells. People grow this tree across the tropics for fruit and shade.

This fast-growing tree sheds its leaves and forms a broad crown. Its dense canopy suits a large garden or open site. Most trees reach about 33–49 feet [10–15 metres] tall. Some reach 82 feet [25 metres], beyond the usual garden range. The trunk can exceed 2 feet [0.6 metres] across. Thick, cork-like bark covers it. Growers also plant the tree for its flowers and fruit display.

Small white flowers grow in large, branched clusters called panicles. Bees visit the flowers and act as pollinators. The oval fruit measures about 0.10–0.13 feet [0.03–0.04 metres] long. Ripe fruit can look pale orange, yellow, or brown. Its flesh has a tart taste, though fruit quality varies. Some trees bear sweet, pleasant fruit; others taste much less appealing. People eat the fruit fresh or cook it with sugar. They also make jam, ice cream, and juice from it. Unripe fruit serves as a pickle, rather like olives.

Give this tree full sun and soil that drains well. It prefers fertile soil with a medium to heavy texture. It can also grow where soil fertility is lower. Warm, frost-free tropical sites suit it best. Daytime heat of 21–27°C supports its best growth. Frost can cause severe damage. It grows with rainfall spread through the year. It can also cope with a clear dry season. Fresh seed and large woody cuttings offer ways to raise plants.

Young leaves serve as a cooked green vegetable. People also eat the shoots and seeds. Useful Tropical Plants reports no known hazards for this species. Folk medicine uses its bark, flowers, roots, and leaves. These uses do not establish safe or effective medical treatments. The soft, light wood supplies boxes, posts, and dugout boats. Decay fungi and insects can attack the wood. Root ash has also served in soap making.