Latin name - Morinda citrifolia 

Native to southeast Asia, the tropical Noni tree bears resemblance to its cousin Coffee, by its large glossy green leaves and similar white flowers.  One of the more interesting tropical trees we grow, Noni certainly has a *reputation* among those who know it.  Brace yourself… Nicknames for Noni include “stinky cheese fruit” and “vomit fruit”.  Yum!  Read on to learn more, if you have a strong stomach.

Noni is a large shrub or small tree, typically growing to 10-15 feet in size.  Its appearance in a landscape is gorgeous, luscious, and tropical.  The fruit, despite its… strong flavor, has a host of medicinal benefits.   It is said that Noni fruit can provide joint pain relief, immune system support, assistance with weight loss, increased physical endurance, and can help relieve a number of illnesses.  Noni leaves are also used topically for pain relief, as a moisturizer, and to treat skin conditions like acne and eczema.  One traditional Caribbean name for Noni even translates to “pain killer”.  How’s that for a stinky cheese fruit?

The Noni tree matures quickly, fruiting in as little as 12 to 18 months from seed.  It can tolerate a variety of conditions, including drought, poor soil, and salty coastal soils.  This makes it a good choice for beachside properties in South Florida.  Noni can tolerate full sun, but also grows well in a bit of shade, making it versatile in the landscape.  Consider planting a Noni tree in your food forest, and enjoy its beauty as well as the long list of benefits from the fruit and leaves.

A note on the flavor of Noni fruit…

No lie, it’s an acquired taste.  At best, it’s reminiscent of very sharp, funky cheese.  At worst, it will probably make you gag.  Be prepared to chase it with another fruit or something to drink.  Some people do eventually grow to love it.  One method of consumption is juicing or adding Noni fruit to smoothies to mask the taste, while still enjoying the benefits.  Put it on your bucket list to try Noni fruit at least once!

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Size:  10-15 feet 

Sun Requirements:  Full sun to part shade

Cold Hardy: 30º F

Harvest Season:  Year round

Watering Requirements:  Thrives in the rainy season but is drought tolerant

Food Forest Layer: Canopy, Sub Canopy, Understory