| Wild Tobacco | |
| Acnistus arborescens | |
| a.k.a. Gallinero |
Medium sized shrubby tree with soft cork-like bark. Small flowers are followed by little orange tomato-like fruits. Plant is used for its anti-cancer properties.
Description: Small or medium sized shrubby tree to 10-20ft. Small orange fruits are very popular with birds, but have
little taste and may not be palatable for humans. Despite its name, it
does not contain any nicotine compounds.
Hardiness: Subtropical, will survive
brief frosts.
Propagation: By seed, cuttings.
Leaves and bark; bark has ornamental, cork-like appearance
Uses: Plant contains Withaferin A and Withacnistin, both having anti-tumor properties. Extracts from this plant have historically been used by natives as an herbal treatment for cancer. Can also be used as a diuretic.
Native Range: Native to Central and South America and the Caribbean.