Pometia Pinnata

Description

Pometia Pinnata, also known as the Fiji longan or taun tree, is a tropical tree species that is native to Southeast Asia, Melanesia, and Polynesia. It is a member of the Sapindaceae family, which also includes other fruit trees such as lychee and rambutan. Pometia Pinnata produces large, edible fruits that are similar in taste and texture to the longan fruit. The tree is also grown for its wood, which is used in construction and furniture making.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukarya
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Sapindales
Family	Sapindaceae
Genus	Pometia
Species	Pinnata

Appearance

Pometia Pinnata is a medium to large-sized tree that can grow up to 30 meters in height. Its leaves are pinnate, with 5-9 leaflets that are oblong or elliptical in shape. The tree produces small, white flowers that are arranged in panicles. The fruits are spherical or oblong, and can grow up to 4 centimeters in diameter. They have a thin, tough skin that is brown or reddish-brown in color. The flesh is translucent and juicy, with a sweet, musky flavor.

Care Guide

Water: Pometia Pinnata requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: The tree benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Fertilizer should be applied during the growing season.Soil: Pometia Pinnata grows best in well-draining, fertile soil. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH of 5.5-6.5.Sunlight: The tree prefers full sunlight, but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Pometia Pinnata is hardy in USDA zones 10-12, and can be grown in tropical and subtropical regions.

Common Pests & Diseases

Pometia Pinnata is susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, including fruit flies, mealybugs, scale insects, and powdery mildew. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticides and fungicides can help prevent infestations.

Habitat

Pometia Pinnata is native to Southeast Asia, Melanesia, and Polynesia. It grows in a range of habitats, including rainforests, savannas, and coastal areas. The tree is cultivated in many tropical and subtropical regions for its fruit and wood.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Pometia Pinnata be grown in a container?
A: While Pometia Pinnata can be grown in a container, it is not recommended as the tree can grow quite large and requires a lot of space.Q: How long does it take for Pometia Pinnata to bear fruit?
A: Pometia Pinnata typically bears fruit within 3-5 years of planting.Q: Is Pometia Pinnata self-pollinating?
A: No, Pometia Pinnata requires cross-pollination from another tree to produce fruit.Q: How should Pometia Pinnata be pruned?
A: Pometia Pinnata should be pruned in the late winter or early spring to remove any dead or diseased wood. The tree can also be pruned to control its size and shape.

Related Plants

• Litchi chinensis
• Nephelium lappaceum
• Dimocarpus longan
• Sapindus mukorossi

References

• “Pometia pinnata.” Useful Tropical Plants, 2021, tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Pometia+pinnata.
• Wu, J. Y., et al. “Pometia pinnata.” Handbook of Major Palm Pests: Biology and Management, 2017, pp. 543-548.
• “Pometia pinnata.” Tropical Fruit Trees, 2021, www.tropicalfruittrees.com.au/pometia-pinnata.