The “leche tree,” or cow tree, refers to a group of tropical plants known for their milky sap, a latex resembling animal milk. This unique sap has long captured human interest, and these trees offer various resources beyond it. This article explores their appearance, habitats, diverse applications, and cultivation.
Understanding the Leche Tree
Brosimum utile is a prominent species known as the cow tree or milk tree. This evergreen tree typically grows to 30 meters (98 feet) and sometimes up to 50 meters (164 feet) tall. Its notably straight, cylindrical trunk often exceeds a meter in diameter, supported by low, rounded buttress roots. The thick, smooth, gray-brown bark readily exudes copious white, viscous latex when incised.
The leaves of Brosimum utile are large, simple, and arranged alternately, measuring up to 50 centimeters (20 inches) long and 14 centimeters (5.5 inches) wide. These elliptical leaves feature a prominent pinnate vein pattern and a glossy green, smooth surface. The tree produces bisexual inflorescences with small, spherical flowers on bare branches. After pollination, these develop into spherical berries, typically 3-4 centimeters (1.2-1.6 inches) in diameter, containing a single large brown seed.
Where Leche Trees Grow
Brosimum utile is native to tropical wet forests across southern Central America and northern South America, ranging from Brazil and Venezuela northward to Costa Rica. These trees thrive in humid tropical climates, often found in rainforests and evergreen forest formations. They commonly grow at elevations below 400 meters (1,300 feet), preferring well-drained slopes. As a climax species, it is well-adapted to mature forest conditions, often dominating canopies. While primarily wild, Brosimum utile is also cultivated in regions like India, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia.
Diverse Uses of Leche Trees
The “leche tree” is valued for its milky sap, historically used as a milk substitute by indigenous communities in Central and South America. This nourishing white liquid, often slightly viscous and resinous, can be consumed directly. Fresh sap may taste like cream, used to lighten coffee or whipped for desserts. Brosimum utile latex contains 5 to 7% protein, making it suitable for products like cheese and ice cream.
Beyond its edible sap, the tree’s wood, marketed as Sande, holds significant commercial value. The heartwood ranges from yellowish-white to light brown, with a medium texture and straight to interlocked grain. This timber is utilized for various construction purposes, including plywood, particleboard, fiberboard, carpentry, light construction, and furniture components. Though not highly durable against decay or insects, it works well with tools and readily accepts stains and finishes.
The tree also offers other practical applications. Its fibrous bark has traditionally been processed to create cloth, sails, and blankets. The latex contains a wax, galactin, which can be extracted for candle making. Leaves and branch tips serve as fodder for cattle, and edible nuts and fruits can be boiled or salted for human consumption or used as pig feed. Indigenous cultures have also used the latex for its pharmacological properties, including as an analgesic and a remedy for colds and whooping cough.
Cultivating Leche Trees
Cultivating Brosimum utile requires conditions that closely mimic its natural tropical rainforest habitat. These trees thrive in warm, humid environments, necessitating consistent moisture and high humidity levels. Ideal temperatures for growth are around 24°C (75°F) or higher.
Brosimum utile prefers well-drained soil, accommodating sandy, loamy, and clay compositions, with a preference for moist conditions. Soil pH can range from mildly acid to neutral or mildly alkaline. Young plants benefit from bright, indirect light. Mature trees are often described as shade-tolerant climax species, though some sources suggest they cannot grow in full shade.
Propagation of Brosimum utile can be achieved through seeds or cuttings. For seeds, sow immediately after collection due to their short shelf life. Soaking seeds in warm water for 24 hours can promote germination, though it can be slow and irregular, taking weeks to months. For cuttings, select healthy semi-woody stems 6-8 inches long, making a clean cut below a leaf node. Dipping the cut end in rooting hormone enhances success. Plant cuttings in a well-draining potting mix, keeping them in a warm, shaded location with consistent moisture.
Important Considerations
The term “leche tree” is a common name encompassing several species known for their milky sap. The sticky latex of Brosimum utile, though consumed, might cause skin irritation for some. Exercise care when handling the sap.