Manchineel is a poisonous tree native to the Caribbean and Central America. The spelling of the word "Manchineel" is pronounced as mænʃəniːl, with the stress on the second syllable. This word is comprised of four syllables, and is spelled in English with a combination of letters that deviates from the rules of English phonetics. It's important to know the correct spelling of this word for safety reasons, as the Manchineel's sap, fruit, and leaves can cause severe burns and even blindness if they come into contact with the skin.
Manchineel refers to a tree species scientifically known as Hippomane mancinella, typically found in the coastal areas of the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico. The Manchineel tree is known for its distinctive features and its reputation as the most dangerous tree in the world.
The Manchineel tree is a member of the family Euphorbiaceae and can grow up to 15 meters in height. It possesses a dense, round-shaped canopy with shiny, dark green leaves. The tree produces small greenish-yellow flowers and small, yellow-green fruits that resemble small apples. However, the fruit is highly toxic and must not be consumed under any circumstances, as it contains a powerful irritant known as phorbol. Even standing under the tree during rainfall can cause a severe skin reaction.
Aside from its poisonous fruit, the Manchineel tree can also be perilous due to its sap. All parts of the tree contain a milky latex sap that can cause severe dermatitis upon contact with the skin. Furthermore, inhaling the smoke from burning the tree can lead to respiratory problems and eye irritation.
Given its dangerous nature, the Manchineel tree is marked with warning signs in its native regions to alert individuals to stay away from its vicinity. It is commonly advised to avoid touching or standing under a Manchineel tree to prevent any potential harm or injury.
A large West India tree, the wood of which is hard and durable, and beautifully clouded, but whose sap is very poisonous, particularly that of the bark.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Manchineel" is derived from the Spanish term "manzanilla", meaning "little apple". This term was used to describe the fruit of the tree known as the Manchineel tree (Hippomane mancinella), which bears small greenish-yellow fruit resembling apples. The name was later anglicized as "manchineel". The tree itself is native to the Caribbean and Central and South America.