Lansium Domesticum
Contents
Description
Lansium Domesticum, also known as langsat, is a tropical fruit tree that belongs to the Meliaceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia and is widely cultivated in countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. The fruit is small, round, and has a yellowish-brown skin when ripe. It is similar in appearance to a small potato and contains a translucent, juicy pulp with a sweet and sour taste.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Meliaceae |
| Genus | Lansium |
Appearance
The langsat tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and has a dense, rounded crown. Its leaves are dark green and glossy, with a lanceolate shape and an alternate arrangement. The tree produces small, white flowers that are fragrant and grow in clusters. The fruit is small, round, and has a diameter of about 2-4 centimeters. It has a yellowish-brown skin when ripe and contains a translucent, juicy pulp with 5-6 segments that are similar to those of citrus fruits.
Care Guide
The langsat tree requires regular watering and fertilization to ensure healthy growth and fruit production. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and should be planted in a sunny location. The tree is hardy in USDA zones 10-12, but can also be grown in a greenhouse or as a container plant in colder climates. It is susceptible to pest and disease problems, so regular monitoring and treatment is recommended.
Water
The langsat tree requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. It should be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions and soil moisture level. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to ensure that the soil is well-drained and not waterlogged.
Fertilization
The langsat tree benefits from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and fruit production. It should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every 6-8 weeks during the growing season. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates and timing.
Soil
The langsat tree prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 5.5-7.0. It is important to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot.
Sunlight
The langsat tree requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and fruit production. It should be planted in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. In hotter climates, it may benefit from some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Hardiness Zones
The langsat tree is hardy in USDA zones 10-12, but can also be grown in a greenhouse or as a container plant in colder climates. It is important to protect the tree from frost and cold temperatures, as this can damage or kill the tree.
Common Pests & Diseases
The langsat tree is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including fruit flies, scale insects, mealybugs, and fungal diseases such as anthracnose and powdery mildew. Regular monitoring and treatment is recommended to prevent infestations and disease outbreaks. Insecticidal soap and neem oil can be used to control pests, while fungicides can be used to control fungal diseases.
Habitat
The langsat tree is native to Southeast Asia and is widely cultivated in countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. It prefers tropical and subtropical climates with high humidity and rainfall. The tree is often grown in home gardens and orchards for its fruit, which is a popular snack and ingredient in local cuisine.
Question and Answer
Q: How long does it take for a langsat tree to bear fruit?
A: It typically takes 3-5 years for a langsat tree to bear fruit.
Q: Is the langsat fruit nutritious?
A: Yes, the langsat fruit is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and calcium.
Q: Can the langsat tree be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the langsat tree can be grown in a container in colder climates or as a decorative plant.
Q: How often should a langsat tree be pruned?
A: The langsat tree should be pruned regularly to maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased branches. Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
Related Plants
- Mahogany
- Neem
- Chickasaw Plum
- Orange Jessamine
- Mangosteen
References
- “Lansium domesticum.” USDA. Accessed 15 October 2021. https://www.fs.fed.us/global/iitf/pdf/shrubs/Lansium%20domesticum.pdf
- “Langsat.” Purdue University. Accessed 15 October 2021. https://hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/langsat.html
- “Growing Langsat Fruit Trees.” Gardening Know How. Accessed 15 October 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/langsat/growing-langsat-fruit-trees.htm
