Why Manchineel Might Be Earth’s Most Dangerous Tree

The manchineel tree (Hippomane mancinella) may be endangered, but so is anyone who messes with it. That’s because this rare tropical plant, which offers deceptively sweet fruit, is one of the most poisonous trees on Earth.

Manchineels are notorious in their native habitats, the sandy soils and mangroves of South Florida, the Caribbean, Central America, and northern South America. Many are even labeled with warning signs. According to researchers, notorious colonizer Christopher Columbus is said to have called the tree’s fruit “manzanilla de la muerte” or “the little apple of death.” But aside from poisoning the occasional conquistador, tourist, and literary character, manchineel is relatively obscure considering it holds the Guinness World Record for “most dangerous tree.”

Which Part Is Most Toxic?

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The fruits are the most obvious threat. Resembling a small green crabapple just one or two inches wide, the sweet-smelling fruits can cause hours of agony – and potentially death – with a single bite.