Can you ID plant called "mespealis"/"mespelus"?

[Shane K. Bernard]

Can you ID plant/tree called "mespealis"/"mespelus"?

I found a reference to it in an 1860s historical manuscript, but
cannot find it in any reference books, nor can I determine the correct
spelling.

I believe it produced edible fruit and grew in tropical or subtropical
regions (like Louisiana and Cuba).

Please e-mail info to: skb8721 at tam2000.tamu.edu

Thanks,

SKB