Beware the "tree of death": Nature's lethal protector
Hippomane mancinella, known as the "tree of death", is one of the most dangerous trees in the world. Its toxic properties can pose a threat to health and life, as highlighted by National Geographic.
Key information
- Hippomane mancinella is primarily found in Central America and the Caribbean.
- All parts of the tree are highly toxic, including the fruit, leaves, and bark.
- Contact with the tree's sap can lead to severe skin burns.
The "tree of death" in the Caribbean
Hippomane mancinella, also known as the "tree of death," is a plant to avoid during holidays in the tropics. This tree is mainly found in the southern part of North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. As National Geographic emphasises, its toxic properties can pose a serious health threat.
Toxic properties of Hippomane mancinella
All parts of the "beach apple" are highly poisonous. The fruit, leaves, and bark contain sap that can cause blisters on the skin similar to burns. The most dangerous component is phorbol, which dissolves in water, making standing under the tree in the rain particularly risky.
Even standing under it in the rain can be fatal, which is why it is best to avoid the "trees of death", emphasises National Geographic.
Case of Nicola Strickland
In 1999, Nicola Strickland, while on holiday in Tobago, accidentally tasted the fruit of this tree. The sweet taste was quickly replaced by a burning sensation in the throat, and the symptoms only subsided after eight hours. This experience demonstrates how dangerous the fruits of Hippomane mancinella can be.
Although this tree is dangerous, it plays a vital role in environmental protection. It creates a natural barrier against wind and erosion on coasts, and managers of areas where it grows often mark them with warning signs to prevent tragedy.
