Ziziphus oblongifolia S.Moore, treated here as a synonym, is accepted as a valid species in the Flora Do Brasil (on-line version, 2012). If this is accepted more widely, then the reports of use from [] and [] will apply to Z. Oblongifolius and not Z. Mistol[].

Common Name: Mistol

General Information

Sarcomphalus mistol is a thorny, semi-deciduous to evergreen tree with a low, dense, widely globose crown; it can grow 4 - 10 metres tall[, ]. The short, crooked bole can be 15 - 25cm in diameter[].
The edible fruit is enjoyed within the plant's native range, where it is often gathered from the wild[]. The plant is cultivated in Colombia as a fruit tree, occasionally also in Argentina, and northern South America[]. A very ornamental tree, providing a dense shade[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

Range

S. America - Argentina, Paraguay, central Brazil, Bolivia, Peru.

Habitat

Dry, thorny scrubland on clayey, calcareous and well-drained terrains[, ].

Properties

Edibility Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Semi-deciduous Tree
Height	8.00 m
Cultivation Status	Cultivated, Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Requires a sunny position[]. Succeeds in the wild on clayey, calcareous and well-drained terrains[]. Established plants are drought tolerant[].

Edible Uses

Fruit - raw[]. A succulent, fleshy, white pulp with a pleasant, sweet flavour[]. The fruits are around 2cm in diameter and contain a single, hard seed[].

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

he heartwood and sapwood are clearly demarcated. The wood is medium to fine-textured, cross-grained, very heavy, hard, flexible, with good mechanical properties and moderately durable, even when exposed. It is used locally for tool handles, cart wheels, lathe work etc[].
The wood is used for fuel and to make charcoal[].

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a sunny position in individual containers. A low germination rate can usually be expected, with the seed sprouting within 35 - 50 days[].

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