I have tried for four years to figure out what kind of tree I have growing next to my house, and none of my searches have produced results. I'm mostly interested because of the unusual fruit the tree produces, as I have no idea if they're edible (don't want my two and four year olds to find out they're not). Here's a photo, and since it's too early for the fruit, I'll do my best to describe it!

{{gwi:104479}}

The fruit is similar in shape to the sweetgum "gumball", with a dull reddish "spiky" exterior, and has a bright inside that reminds me of persimmon's texture.

Any ideas are much appreciated!

Chandres