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Spanish Lime (Genip)

Scientific Name
Melicoccus bijugatus
Family 
Sapindaceae
Status
Non-Native (naturalized)
​

Botanical Description

Melicoccus bijugatus, commonly known as Genip or Spanish Lime, is a large evergreen tree typically growing 80 feet (20 m) tall.

Growth Form
  • Tall, upright trunk
  • Broad, rounded canopy
  • Dense shade-producing crown
  • Long-lived tree
Bark
  • Gray to brown
  • Smooth to slightly rough with age
  • Thick and durable
Leaves
  • Evenly Bi-pinnately compound
  • Usually 4 pairs of alternately leaflets and winged rachis
  • Oval to elliptic
  • Glossy dark green
  • Smooth margins
Flowers
  • Small and greenish-white
  • Produced in large clusters
  • Mild fragrance
  • Bloom seasonally
Fruit
  • Round, green fruit
  • Thin but leathery rind
  • Translucent orange to salmon-colored pulp
  • Single large seed

Habitat

Melicoccus bijugatus grows in Human Altered environments (yards, gardens, farms).

Distribution 

It is native to northern South America but has become widespread in the Caribbean region.

Ecological Importance

  • Flowers attract pollinators 

  • Fruit eaten by birds and humans 

  • Provides dense shade

Cultural Notes

Melicoccus bijugatus has been used medicinally in the Lucayan Archipelago to treat fevers, gastrointestinal problems, circulatory issues, and for teas. 

  • It is grown for its edible fruits and makes a good shade tree.

  •  Often shared among neighbors during fruiting season.

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