Contents
Description
Hodgsonia Macrocarpa is an evergreen plant that is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in the countries of the Philippines, Borneo, and Malaysia. This plant is also known as the “Forest Apple” due to its large, apple-like fruit. It is commonly found in tropical rainforests and is often used for medicinal purposes in traditional medicine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Hodgsonia |
Appearance
Hodgsonia Macrocarpa is a small tree that can grow up to 15 meters in height. Its leaves are glossy and dark green, with a length of 10-20 cm and a width of 5-10 cm. The tree’s flowers are small and yellow, and they bloom in clusters. However, the most distinctive feature of this plant is its large, round fruit, which can grow up to 15 cm in diameter and weigh up to 5 kg. The fruit is green when unripe and turns yellow when it is ready to be harvested.
Care Guide
Water
Hodgsonia Macrocarpa requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot.
Fertilization
This plant requires regular fertilization to promote growth and fruit production. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium every two weeks during the growing season.
Soil
Hodgsonia Macrocarpa prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. It can tolerate different soil types, but it grows best in loamy soil with good organic matter content.
Sunlight
This plant requires full sun to partial shade to grow and produce fruit. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not produce as much fruit.
Hardiness Zones
Hodgsonia Macrocarpa can grow in hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hodgsonia Macrocarpa is relatively pest-resistant, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. It is also prone to fungal diseases such as root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. These can be prevented by providing proper care and maintaining good hygiene practices.
Habitat
Hodgsonia Macrocarpa is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly found in tropical rainforests. It prefers humid environments and can tolerate moderate shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Hodgsonia Macrocarpa be grown in a container?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a container. Just make sure to use well-draining soil and provide regular watering and fertilization.
Q: How long does it take for Hodgsonia Macrocarpa to bear fruit?
A: It can take 3-4 years for this plant to bear fruit. However, it can produce fruit for up to 50 years.
Q: Is Hodgsonia Macrocarpa poisonous?
A: No, this plant is not poisonous. However, the fruit can cause skin irritation in some people.
Q: Can Hodgsonia Macrocarpa be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, this plant can be propagated from cuttings. Just make sure to use a rooting hormone and keep the cutting in a warm, humid environment.
Related Plants
- Hodgsonia Heteroclita
- Hodgsonia Maleoides
- Croton Macrocarpus
- Euphorbia Grandicornis
References
- “Hodgsonia Macrocarpa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c199.
- “Hodgsonia Macrocarpa.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:351636-1.
- “Hodgsonia Macrocarpa.” World Agroforestry Centre, www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/AFTPDFS/Hodgsonia_macrocarpa.PDF.
