CHICO

Chico is believed to be native to Yucatan and possibly other nearby parts of southern Mexico, as well as northern Belize and northeastern Guatemala. It was introduced long ago throughout tropical America and the West Indies and the southern part of the Florida mainland. Chico is a prolific tree. It bears fruit most months of the year and can be grown in many parts of the country. Even during harvest peaks, chico can still command good market price. Chico fruit are eaten fresh when ripe. They may also be pulped and used for making ice cream or jam. Although a poor source of vitamin C, the fruit a bounds in calcium, phosphorus and iron. The bark produces a milky latex, the source of chicle (a major ingredients of chewing gum), that we still import from Mexico and Central America. Lumber from chico wood can also be used in the manufacture of the cabinets and furniture.