| Autograph Tree | |
| Clusia rosea | |
| a.k.a. Scotch Attorney, Pitch Apple, Balsam Fig |
Small sized, spreading ornamental tree related to the mangosteen. Trees are usually grown for their attractive dark-green foliage. People often carve names into the leaves which remain until the leaf is shed.
Description: Small or medium sized tree, sometimes to 30ft, but usually only 10-15ft.
Trees flower during summer, producing pretty white
flowers followed by woody fruit.
Hardiness: Not hardy to freezes, but should stand very short frosts.
Growing Environment: Trees are not too particular of soil conditions and grow in both arid
and wet climates. They also tolerate salty conditions. Grow in full
sun or part shade.
Full-size Autograph Tree, Sunset Beach, Oahu
Propagation: By seeds and cuttings.
Uses: The tree is a commonly planted ornamental in gardens and streets of tropical regions, both for its foliage, and its adaptability.
Native Range: Native to the West Indies, but is common in all tropical areas and has naturalized in much of tropical America, including Southern Florida.