You can't even stand next to this tree. The "killer apple tree" is the most dangerous in the world

It comes from regions that many of us associate with paradise – the Caribbean, Central America, parts of South America . But it has nothing to do with heaven. It is best to give it a wide berth. The locals call this species the "death tree" – and for good reason.

The Toxic Charm of the "Death Apple"

The entire plant – from leaves, through bark, to fruit – contains a highly poisonous, milky sap . A drop on the skin is enough to cause painful blisters resembling severe burns. Eating its fruit can result in acute gastritis, internal bleeding, shortness of breath, and in extreme cases – death. But that's not all.

- Standing under a mancinella tree during rain can end tragically - warn local authorities. All it takes is for raindrops to wash the toxic sap off the leaves and onto the skin. Burning its wood? A terrible idea. The smoke it releases irritates the respiratory tract, and contact with the eyes can even lead to blindness. In regions where it occurs, each tree is marked with a warning sign . Sometimes they are also painted with a red cross or circle.

The Silent Guardian of the Coast

Paradoxically, this plant, which can so brutally harm humans, is at the same time invaluable for the environment. Reaching up to 15 meters in height, Hippomane mancinella creates natural protective barriers against wind and erosion . Thanks to its densely growing trees, the coasts of Central America do not easily succumb to the destructive power of the ocean.

So we can say that the "death apple tree" is not so much a monster as a misunderstood guardian - toxic, but necessary. But although it looks like something from a fairy tale, let no one be fooled by its charm. Because in this case it really is better not to touch it. Or even approach it.