Descriptive
Information
- Field
Marks & Observations: The Pond Apple is often
found growing around tree islands and is pervasive on the southern
side of Lake Okeechobee. The wood of this tree, which is surrounded
by grayish bark (some vary to a reddish brown) with shallow fissures,
is buoyant. The fruit, which was not observable during this season,
are yellow when ripe and edible, but are rumored to taste like turpentine.
Turtles and alligators often feed on fallen pond apples. The leaves
of this tree were observed to be elliptical in shape, green with a
slightly yellow tint in color, and shiny smooth in texture. Leaves
grow alternate to each other, and the sides fold upwards from the
vein. The branches
from which the leaves grow were smoother, and reddish brown in color.
The base of the tree does
not consist of a single trunk, but rather is branched, with several
trunks dividing further as they approach the ground.
- Size: Height:
up to 50 feet Leaves: 5 inches Flower: 1 inch Fruit: 5 inches
- General
Habitat: Swamps, wet hammocks, stream sides.
- Geographic
Range: Central and South Florida
- References:
Alden, Peter; Cech, Rick; Nelson, Gil. National Audubon Society Field
Guide to Florida. Chanticleer Press, Inc. New York . Fifth Edition,
July 2003. P 97
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