Manchineel trees (Hippomane mancinella) are poisonous to dogs and cats. One species of manchineel (Hippomane mancinella) contains three toxins: Hippomane A, Hippomane B, and a daphnane diterpene ester. These toxins can irritate the digestive tract and cause vomiting and severe, painful abdominal pain. For additional information on the plant, including its scientific name, see Facts and Legends.
What is Manchineel tree?
Manchineel trees (Hippomane mancinella) are common in South America and can be found all over the Caribbean as well as in Florida. This is a tree whose fruit bears a poisonous latex as it ripens. The toxic latex is produced by two types of tree: the common manchineel tree and the West Indian manchineel tree. The common manchineel tree is native to most of the Americas, while the West Indian manchineel tree is native to the West Indies. The common manchineel tree bears small fruits that are bright red when ripe. The West Indian manchineel tree bears large fruits that are bright red and turn black as they mature.