Spanish Lime / Mamón

Mamoncillo is native to Colombia and is an evergreen tree growing to 18 m.¹ The small, 3–4 cm fruit of this plant has a thin green leathery skin, and inside it is a soft, yellowish, clear, gelatinous, and juicy pulp.

Mamoncillo is rich in iron, phosphorus, vitamins A and C, calcium, fiber, and tryptophan. 

The fruit may be eaten raw or in the form of pies, jellies, marmalades, and jams, and the seeds are edible when roasted. 

The nectar of Mamoncillo flowers is very attractive to bees and hummingbirds. The pulp of the Mamoncillo fruit is used for pie filling, jam, marmalade, or jelly. The peeled fruits are also boiled to make juice for cold drinks. In Columbia, the Mamoncillo fruit juice is canned commercially. On the other hand, the honey of this plant is popular with beekeepers because of its delicious taste. 

Annual Yield

Adult trees can produce up to 200 kg of fruit per year. 

• The pulp extracts of Mamoncillo have antimicrobial activity based on the dose eaten. Moreover, the pulp extract exhibits antifungal activity against various yeast,  

• According to research, the edible pulp of Mamoncillo shows high levels of antioxidant activity and, therefore, can help the body get rid of toxic free radicals and reduce the risks of chronic diseases,²

• The fruit pulp is used to treat high blood pressure and asthma,³

• The astringent seed kernels are roasted, mixed with honey, and given to people who suffer continuous diarrhea,

• The decoction of its leaves is given as a clyster for intestinal diseases.⁴