This large native tree is False Mastic, Sideroxylon foetidissimum. It belongs to the sapodilla family, Sapotaceae, and is native from southern Florida through the Caribbean. It is a characteristic tree of tropical forests and woodlands, including those of the Virgin Islands.

False Mastic can grow into a tall, substantial tree with a straight trunk and a dense, rounded crown. Older trees may develop thick, rugged bark and strong spreading branches.

The leaves are simple, leathery and glossy green. They are arranged alternately along the twigs and often cluster near the ends of the branches. Their firm texture helps the tree withstand strong sunlight, wind and seasonal dryness.

The flowers are small, cream-colored or yellowish and appear in clusters along the branches. They may be easy to overlook, but they have a strong fragrance and attract insects that assist with pollination.

After flowering, the tree produces oval or nearly round fruits. These begin green and turn yellow as they mature. Each fruit contains a thin layer of fleshy pulp surrounding one large, hard seed. Birds and other animals feed on the ripe fruits and help disperse the seeds.

Like many members of the sapodilla family, False Mastic produces a white, milky latex when its leaves, bark or twigs are damaged. Visitors should not break the plant simply to see this feature.

The unusual species name foetidissimum means “very foul-smelling.” It is generally associated with the strong odor produced by parts of the plant, particularly the flowers or freshly cut wood. The odor contrasts sharply with the tree’s handsome appearance.

Despite the name, mature False Mastic trees have long been valued for their wood. The timber is hard, heavy and durable and was historically used for construction, posts, furniture and other purposes. Extensive cutting reduced the number of large old trees in some areas.

The name “False Mastic” distinguishes it from the true mastic trees of the genus Pistacia, which belong to a completely different plant family.

This tree may not have enormous flowers or dramatic foliage, but it is an important native canopy species. Its glossy leaves, fragrant flowers, yellow fruits and strong timber all contribute to its identity.

When standing beneath a mature False Mastic, we are looking at the kind of sturdy Caribbean tree that can provide shade, food for wildlife and structure to a forest for many decades.