The yellow mamey, also known as the Santo Domingo mamey or mammee apple, is a majestic tropical fruit tree native to the Antilles and Central America. It belongs to the Calophyllaceae family and is recognized for both its imposing appearance and its large, fragrant, and highly nutritious fruits.
This tree can reach 15 to 25 meters in height, with a dense, rounded canopy. It has a straight trunk with thick bark and large, glossy, evergreen leaves. The white, highly aromatic flowers, which can appear singly or in small clusters, attract pollinating insects such as bees and beetles.
The yellow mamey fruit is rounded or oval, with a thick, reddish-brown rind. Its flesh is deep yellow or orange, fleshy, sweet, and fragrant, with a flavor reminiscent of apricot or apricot. It generally contains one to four large seeds.
Uses and Benefits
Culinary: It is consumed fresh or processed into jams, juices, nectars, desserts, and ice cream.
Nutritional: A rich source of vitamin A, vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.
Medicinal (traditional): It is believed to have digestive, antiparasitic, and tonic properties.
Wood: Durable, occasionally used in construction and carpentry.
Ecological and Ornamental Importance
The yellow mamey is valued not only for its fruits but also as a shade and ornamental tree, ideal for large gardens, parks, and tropical reforestation projects. It attracts local biodiversity and improves soil fertility thanks to its dense foliage. It is a hardy, long-lived species of great cultural value in many regions of the Caribbean and Latin America.
