Description

• Ehretia tinifolia, commonly known as the siricote or ping-pong tree, is an evergreen tree in the borage family (Boraginaceae). It has a dense, rounded crown, glossy, oval leaves with smooth or slightly toothed margins, and small, fragrant, white flowers arranged in clusters. The flowers develop into small, rounded fruits that turn yellowish-orange to reddish-orange as they mature. The tree is often planted as an ornamental shade tree and can be clipped into hedges.

Range

• Ehretia tinifolia is native to Mexico, Central America, and parts of the Caribbean. It occurs naturally in tropical and subtropical regions and is also cultivated in gardens and urban landscapes. It is native to Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, and the surrounding area.

Habitat

• Siricote grows in tropical dry forests, woodland, scrub, and coastal or inland areas with warm climates. It tolerates seasonal drought once established and grows in a variety of well-drained soils. It is also common in parks, gardens, streetscapes, and other landscaped areas, where its dense evergreen foliage provides shade and shelter for wildlife.