6. Steinhardt Conservatory: Entry House

Akee Tree (Blighia sapida)

Akee fruit. Photo: Romi Ige.

Akee is the national fruit of Jamaica, though it originated in western Africa. William Bligh (known for his role as captain in the mutiny on the Bounty) brought Blighia sapida to Jamaica in the late 18th century. Akee fruit is tricky: If eaten before mature, it can be fatally toxic. Once it is perfectly ripe, however, the fruit may be prepared in a variety of ways—parboiled, stewed, curried, and deep-fried.

Notable Neighbors:

• 6A. Dawn redwood grove (Metasequoia glyptostroboides)
• 6B. White willow (Salix alba 'Tristis')
• 6C. Yellow buckeye (Aesculus flava)

Inside the Conservatory:

• Akee Tree (Blighia sapida)
• Dragonsblood Tree (Pterocarpus officinalis)
• Tasmanian Blue Gum (Eucalyptus globulus)
• Honduras Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla)
• Mesquite Tree (Prosopis glandulosa)