Nance

(Guapira opposita)

Nance (Guapira opposita)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Guapira opposita, commonly known as Nance, is an evergreen tree native to tropical dry forests, coastal thickets, and disturbed areas in South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. It typically grows at a moderate rate to a height of 20-30 feet (6-9 meters) and a width of 10-20 feet (3-6 meters). The tree has a dense, rounded canopy with leathery, dark green leaves. Its inconspicuous green or yellow flowers bloom in the spring and summer, followed by small, round, edible fruits that turn yellow or red when ripe. The fruits are often used in local cuisines and have a sweet-tart flavor.

Nance is valued for its fruit, which is consumed fresh, used in desserts, or fermented into beverages. It is also planted for its dense shade and as an ornamental in tropical and subtropical landscapes. The tree adapts well to urban environments, tolerating a range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils, as long as they provide medium to fast drainage. It requires medium amounts of water and can grow in full sun to part shade. While it is generally low-maintenance, it may be susceptible to pests such as fruit flies when the fruits are ripening.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 20-30 feet
  • Width: 10-20 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to tropical dry forests, coastal thickets, and disturbed areas in South America, Central America, and the Caribbean

Other Names

Common Names: Sand Pear, Nance Tree, Nance

Scientific Names: , Guapira opposita, Bessera calycantha, Guapira cafferiana, Guapira olfersiana, Guapira opposita var. opposita, Pisonia cafferana, Pisonia cafferiana, Pisonia nitida var. parvifolia, Pisonia olfersiana

GBIF Accepted Name: