3 Mayan Fruit Trees Vanishing in Yucatán

Yucatán, Mexico — The Yucatán Peninsula stands apart from other regions of Mexico due to its wealth of native fruit species, some of which are now at risk of disappearing. The decline is attributed to a lack of cultivation, dwindling knowledge about these plants, and competition from commercially popular fruits.

Native Fruits Under Threat

The Land of the Mayab is home to a wide variety of fruit trees, many of which are unknown in other parts of the country and absent from international markets. Despite this, they remain a vital food source for indigenous communities, who have domesticated them in backyard orchards.

The rise of conventional fruits—such as pitahaya (a high-value commercial crop native to tropical zones in Guerrero, Puebla, Quintana Roo, Tabasco, and Yucatán), imported kiwis, and starfruit—has pushed lesser-known native species to the brink. A combination of factors, including the abundance of exotic fruits, disinterest in cultivating culturally significant but low-value species, and habitat loss, threatens the survival of these Mayan fruit trees.

Below are three species at risk of vanishing:

Bonete

Also known as k’umché, this tree has a conical trunk and produces a berry-like fruit. The tenderest fruits are selected for consumption, often sliced and served with fresh water or as a snack. Locals recommend adding salt, lime, and chili powder for an enhanced culinary experience.

Kanisté

This tree grows no taller than eight meters, with a straight trunk and ovoid fruits featuring thin, yellowish skin resembling that of a mango. Each fruit contains three to five seeds surrounded by yellow pulp, described as sweet, akin to a baked sweet potato.

Nance

Called saj pak in Mayan, this small tree or shrub reaches heights of six to seven meters. Its fruit has a tart-sweet flesh surrounding a large, hard pit. The seeds are white, encased in a thin, brown shell.

Conservation Concerns

Experts warn that without intervention, these culturally and ecologically significant species may vanish, further eroding the biodiversity and traditional knowledge of the Yucatán Peninsula.