Family: Chrysobalanaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Moquilea platypus (commonly known as sansapote or monkey apple) is native to tropical regions ranging from central Mexico through northern Colombia. It is a large, broad-canopied evergreen tree that can grow into an impressive shade tree in suitable climates. The species produces rounded fruits that are sometimes eaten by wildlife and, in some regions, by people. Its dense foliage and spreading form make it valued as a shade or ornamental tree in landscapes and larger gardens.

Risks & Threats
This species is considered to be of low risk in Hawaiʻi, with no strong evidence that it becomes invasive or forms self-sustaining wild populations under local conditions. Potential concerns are minor and mostly relate to fallen fruit creating litter in managed landscapes or attracting animals when fruit is present. Overall, Moquilea platypus does not currently show traits associated with significant ecological or agricultural harm in Hawaiʻi.

High Risk Traits:

• Thrives in tropical climates
  
• Shade-tolerant
  
• Tolerates many soil conditions (and potentially able to exploit many different habitat types)
  
• Fruits and seeds potentially bird and mammal-dispersed

Low Risk Traits:

• No records of naturalization or invasiveness have been documented
  
• Will thrive only in low elevation, warm tropical climates
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
  
• Non-toxic
  
• Landscaping and ornamental value
  
• Slow time to reproductive maturity (10+ years)
  
• Large fruit and seeds unlikely to be inadvertently dispersed