Contents
Description
Manilkara Bidentata, also known as the Bulletwood Tree or Balata, is a tall evergreen tree that can grow up to 100 feet tall. This tree is native to the Caribbean, Central, and South America. The tree has a straight trunk with a diameter of up to 3 feet and grayish-brown bark. It produces small, white, and fragrant flowers that bloom in clusters from March to August.The tree produces edible fruits that are similar to plums. The fruit contains a hard seed that is surrounded by a sweet pulp. The wood of the Manilkara Bidentata tree is extremely hard and dense, making it difficult to work with. However, it is highly valued for its durability and resistance to decay. The wood is commonly used for construction, furniture, and tool handles.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ebenales |
| Family: | Sapotaceae |
| Genus: | Manilkara |
Appearance
The Manilkara Bidentata tree has a tall and straight trunk with a diameter of up to 3 feet. The bark of the tree is grayish-brown and rough to the touch. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and oval-shaped, with a length of up to 6 inches. The tree produces small, white, and fragrant flowers that bloom in clusters from March to August. The fruit is a small, plum-like berry that contains a hard seed surrounded by a sweet pulp.
Care Guide
Water: The Manilkara Bidentata tree requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. The tree should be watered deeply once a week.Fertilization: The tree should be fertilized twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall, using a balanced fertilizer.Soil: The Manilkara Bidentata tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The tree can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The Manilkara Bidentata tree is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Manilkara Bidentata tree is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. The tree may also be attacked by scale insects, which can be controlled using insecticidal soap.
Habitat
The Manilkara Bidentata tree is native to the Caribbean, Central, and South America. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including rainforests, dry forests, and coastal savannas. The tree prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Manilkara Bidentata tree drought-tolerant?
A: The tree is not drought-tolerant and requires regular watering, especially during the dry season.Q: Can the wood of the Manilkara Bidentata tree be used for outdoor furniture?
A: Yes, the wood of the tree is highly valued for its durability and resistance to decay, making it suitable for outdoor furniture.Q: How tall can the Manilkara Bidentata tree grow?
A: The tree can grow up to 100 feet tall.Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Manilkara Bidentata tree?
A: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11.
Related Plants
- Manilkara Zapota (Sapodilla)
- Manilkara Kauki (Hawaiian Hardwood)
- Manilkara Hexandra (Milk Tree)
References
- “Manilkara bidentata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 2, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a239.
- “Manilkara bidentata.” PlantNet. Accessed August 2, 2021. https://www.plantnet.org/en/plantimages/Manilkara-bidentata.html.
- “Bulletwood Tree.” Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. Accessed August 2, 2021. https://biogeodb.stri.si.edu/bioinformatics/sitio_especies/Reports/PlantReport.aspx?Id=9140&lang=en.
