Sombra De Touro Fruit Plant (Acanthosyris spinescens)

Common Name: Sombra De Touro

Botanical Name: Acanthosyris spinescens

General Information: Sombra De Touro is a thorny deciduous tree belonging to the Santalaceae family. Native to Southern South America, including Argentina, Uruguay, and southern and eastern Brazil, this slow-growing tree typically reaches a height of 3 to 6 meters. It thrives in sunny positions and is known for its edible fruits, which are approximately 3cm in diameter.

The tree has a distinctive appearance with thorns and a low crown. The short, crooked bole can have a diameter of 20 to 30cm. The fruits, gathered from the wild, have a thin skin and contain a very succulent pulp with a sweet, pleasant flavor. Although not widely appreciated, the fruit is consumed locally. Additionally, Sombra De Touro has local medicinal uses, and a decoction of the leaves is used to treat high fevers, while the leaves are applied externally to dress ulcers.

Cultivation Details:

Bloom Time/Fruiting: 3 to 5 Years

Maintenance Required: Moderate