Definition

Noun: 1. A tropical tree species: A fast-growing, small evergreen tree native to tropical regions of the Americas. It is characterized by its white flowers, small white to red edible fruit, and bark that yields a fibrous material.

Examples of Usage

Advanced Usage

• The species name is used in formal, scientific, and horticultural contexts. In common usage, it is almost always referred to by one of its many common names.

Variants and Related Words

• Common Names: This tree is widely known by regional common names rather than its scientific name. These include:
  • Jamaican cherry
  • Panama berry
  • Singapore cherry
  • Strawberry tree (Note: This can cause confusion with other species)
• Related Terms:
  • Fruit: The small, round, sweet fruit is often simply called "calabura fruit" or referred to by the tree's common name (e.g., "Jamaican cherries").
  • Timber: The wood is sometimes called "calabura wood," noted for being lightweight and used for items like tool handles.

Synonyms

• Jamaican cherry tree
• Panama berry tree

Notes on Different Meanings

• refers specifically to the botanical species. It does not have other metaphorical or idiomatic meanings. Its "meanings" are its physical characteristics: a tree, a source of fruit, a source of fiber, and a source of timber.

Noun

1. a fast-growing tropical American evergreen having white flowers and white fleshy edible fruit; bark yields a silky fiber used in cordage and wood is valuable for staves