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Description
Muntingia Calabura, also known as the Jamaican cherry or the strawberry tree, is a fast-growing tree that is native to tropical America. It is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 10 meters tall. The tree produces small, edible, red fruit that is sweet and has a distinct strawberry-like flavor. The fruit ripens quickly and falls off the tree easily, making it a popular food source for birds and other wildlife.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Muntingiaceae |
| Genus | Muntingia |
Appearance
The Muntingia Calabura has a slender trunk with a smooth, gray bark. The tree produces dense foliage with green, oval-shaped leaves that are about 7-15 cm long. The leaves have a slightly serrated edge and are alternate in arrangement. The tree produces small, white flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter and have five petals. The fruit of the tree is a small, red, fleshy drupe that is about 1 cm in diameter.
Care Guide
The Muntingia Calabura is a relatively easy tree to care for. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It can tolerate some shade, but fruit production may be reduced. The tree is not very cold-tolerant and is best suited for hardiness zones 9-11. Water the tree regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer. Prune the tree to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Muntingia Calabura is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and anthracnose, as well as insect pests such as scales and mites. To prevent these problems, keep the tree healthy and well-maintained. If necessary, treat the tree with an appropriate fungicide or insecticide.
Habitat
The Muntingia Calabura is native to tropical America and is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and disturbed areas. It is commonly grown in home gardens and as an ornamental tree in many parts of the world, including Asia and Africa.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the fruit of the Muntingia Calabura be eaten?
A: Yes, the fruit of the Muntingia Calabura is edible and has a sweet, strawberry-like flavor.
Q: What is the best time of year to prune the Muntingia Calabura?
A: The best time to prune the Muntingia Calabura is in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Q: Is the Muntingia Calabura a good tree for small gardens?
A: Yes, the Muntingia Calabura is a relatively small tree and is well-suited for small gardens.
Q: Is the Muntingia Calabura an invasive species?
A: No, the Muntingia Calabura is not considered an invasive species.
Related Plants
- Muntingia Villosa
- Muntingia Calabura var. nigra
- Muntingia Calabura var. rotundifolia
References
- “Muntingia Calabura.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 14 June 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280320
- “Jamaican Cherry.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed 14 June 2021. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/st187
- “Muntingia Calabura.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 14 June 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:118205-2
