Manilkara facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Manilkara |
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| Manilkara jaimiqui ssp. emarginata branch with developing fruit | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | |
| (unranked): | |
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| Subfamily: |
Sapotoideae
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| Tribe: |
Sapoteae
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| Genus: |
Manilkara
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| Type species | |
| M. kauki (L.) Dubard
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| Synonyms | |
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Achras L. (rejected name) |
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Manilkara is a group of trees and shrubs. They belong to the plant family called Sapotaceae. People often call them Manilkara trees. These plants are found in tropical and subtropical areas around the world.
Some Manilkara trees are very important to people. For example, the Manilkara Chicle tree gives us a special sap. This sap was traditionally used to make chewing gum! Another well-known species is Manilkara zapota, which is also known as the common Sapodilla. This tree produces a sweet, tasty fruit.
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What Manilkara Trees Look Like
Manilkara trees have some unique features. Their leaves often grow in a special way. They form groups that look like rosettes at the ends of branches. You might also see them on short side shoots.
Leaves and Flowers
The leaves are usually thick and feel a bit leathery. They are shiny green on top and a lighter color underneath. When new leaves appear, you might spot small clusters of greenish-yellow flowers underneath them. These flowers are usually not very big.
Uses of Manilkara Trees
Manilkara trees are useful for many things. People value them for their wood, fruit, and sap.
Chewing Gum and Fruit
As mentioned, the sap from the Manilkara Chicle tree was a main ingredient in early chewing gum. Today, other materials are often used. The fruit of the Sapodilla (Manilkara zapota) is a popular tropical fruit. It is sweet and can be eaten fresh.
Wood and Other Products
The wood from some Manilkara species is very strong and durable. This makes it good for building and furniture. Different parts of these trees have also been used in traditional medicine.
See also
- Manilkara para niños (Manilkara for kids in Spanish)
