A plant record

Trumpet tree (pye twonpèt)

Cecropia peltata

EnglishTrumpet tree

Kreyòlpye twonpèt

FrançaisTrompette

BotanicalCecropia peltata

Trumpet tree (pye twonpèt) — Cecropia peltata, used in Haitian and Caribbean herbal tradition

Traditionally used

Diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, cough, heart conditions, kidney problems

Prepared as

The leaves are typically prepared as a tea by steeping 1-2 tablespoons of fresh or dried leaves in hot water (just below boiling, around 180-190°F) for 10-15 minutes. The decoction is strained and consumed warm, usually 1/2 to 1 cup taken 2-3 times daily for respiratory ailments and high blood pressure. For topical applications, crushed fresh leaves are applied directly to wounds or boiled to make a concentrated wash for skin conditions.

In three languages

Kreyòl — Dyabèt, tansyon wo, asma, tous, maladi kè, pwoblèm ren

Français — Diabète, hypertension artérielle, asthme, toux, affections cardiaques, troubles rénaux

Safety

Safety notes for this plant are still being written. Until they are, treat it with a cautious hand.

Plants can look similar and be misidentified — always verify with a local herbalist or guide before use.

Kept alongside

LicoricePineapplePeacock flowerCalotropePapayaRingworm senna

More on Haitian plant medicine