La Habilla

Habilla seed

This thorny-trunked tree (Hura Crepitans Euphorbiaceae) is in Mexico commonly called the habilla or jabillo, bit also known as the ceiba amarilla, quauhtlatzil (“explosive tree”) or sandbox tree.

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Coconut Palms

The coconut palm, although not native to Mexico, grows all along the Mexican coasts, particularly on the western shores, and is harvested for the coconut meat, oil, fiber and wood.

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Bananas

Flora of Mexico: The Banana. An herbaceous plant that grows in tropical climes and produces a high-energy fruit found in many parts of Mexico.

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Mangos

The mango is a tropical fruit tree native to Asia that was introduced to the West Indies in the 18th C. and moved into Mexico early in the 19th C. Its fruit is both juicy and fibrous, with a flowery and somewhat peach-like flavor.

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Cashew

The Cashew: A tropical treat that grows in Mexico, imported from Brazil by Portuguese traders.

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Bougainvillea

Tropical vegetation of Mexico: Bougainvillea. This bush producing masses of brilliant color was introduced into Mexico by French Admiral Louis de Bougainville.

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Papaya

It is believed that the papaya is native to tropical America, particularly southern Mexico and Central America, although now the papaya is common in almost all tropical regions. It is the source of the digestive enzyme, papain.

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A Tropical Garden

The trials and tribulations of attempting to cultivate a tropical garden in an oceanfront environment in Mexico…

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