Jacaratia Mexicana
Contents
Description
Jacaratia Mexicana is a tropical fruit tree that belongs to the Caricaceae family. Also known as Mexican papaya, it is native to Mexico and Central America. Jacaratia Mexicana is a small tree that can grow up to 20-30 feet tall. Its leaves are large and lobed, and its flowers are white and fragrant. The fruit of Jacaratia Mexicana is large and green, resembling a watermelon. It has a sweet and juicy pulp with a few seeds. Jacaratia Mexicana is an important fruit tree in its native range due to its nutritional value and medicinal properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Capparales |
| Family | Caricaceae |
| Genus | Jacaratia |
Appearance
Jacaratia Mexicana has large, lobed leaves that are green and glossy. Its white flowers are fragrant and bloom in clusters. The fruit of Jacaratia Mexicana is large and green, resembling a watermelon. It can weigh up to 10 pounds and is about 10-12 inches in length. The fruit has a sweet and juicy pulp with a few seeds. The skin of the fruit is thin and tough, and it must be peeled before eating.
Care Guide
Jacaratia Mexicana requires regular watering and fertilization to thrive. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Jacaratia Mexicana requires full sun to grow and produce fruit. It is hardy in USDA zones 10-11 and is sensitive to frost and cold temperatures. It should be protected from strong winds and heavy rains.
Common Pests & Diseases
Jacaratia Mexicana is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including mealybugs, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Mealybugs and spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Powdery mildew can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the tree and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Jacaratia Mexicana is native to Mexico and Central America. It grows in tropical and subtropical regions and prefers well-drained soil and full sun. Jacaratia Mexicana is an important fruit tree in its native range due to its nutritional value and medicinal properties.
Questions and Answers
Q: What is the nutritional value of Jacaratia Mexicana?
A: Jacaratia Mexicana is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as potassium, calcium, and magnesium.
Q: Can Jacaratia Mexicana be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Jacaratia Mexicana can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with adequate drainage and nutrients.
Q: How long does it take for Jacaratia Mexicana to produce fruit?
A: Jacaratia Mexicana can start producing fruit in 2-3 years from seed.
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Jacaratia Mexicana?
A: Jacaratia Mexicana has been used in traditional medicine to treat digestive issues, inflammation, and skin conditions.
Related Plants
- Jacaratia corumbensis
- Jacaratia spinosa
- Carica papaya
- Vasconcellea cundinamarcensis
References
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/262118011_Mexican_papaya_Jacaratia_mexicana_A_review
- https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Jacaratia+mexicana
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/papaya/mexican-papaya-trees.htm
