In Florida, one tree bloomed in November and the first fruits ripened 9 months later and the season extended from summer to fall. The fruit is eaten raw when better fruits are not available. According to Standley, it has the reputation of being unwholesome, causing fever and other illnesses. According to analyses made in Costa Rica and El Salvador. It is little-known inasmuch as the trees are valued and seldom felled.
Related species provide timber for construction and charcoal.
The seeds of L. rigida Benth.