Chaya, Tree Spinach, Cuban Spinach

Cnidosculus chayamansa McVaugh

nye-DOS-cue-less chy-ah-MAN-sah

Euphorbiaceae

Explanation of name:  The geneus name coems from Greek, meaning nettle thorn, in reference to stinging hairs. The specific epithet refers to a local name for the plant.

Taxonomic note: Sometimes interpreted as synonymous under Cnidosculus aconitifolia I. M. Johnson

Natural range: Mesoamerica

Recognition:  Large shrub with extensive milky juice and palmately lobed leaves.  Flowers small, white, in cymes.

Landscape uses:  Very easy to propagate and grow into a large shrub.  Although toxic with proper preparation valued in Yucatan as a food source.

Internet sources: http://www.archive.org/details/floracostaricens36fiel

http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/MV/MV04500.pdf