Contents
Description
Caryocar glabrum, also known as the smooth-fruit butter tree or pequi, is a species of tree native to the Amazon basin in South America. It belongs to the family Caryocaraceae and is a close relative of the popular pequi fruit tree (Caryocar brasiliense). The tree can reach up to 20 meters in height and has a dense, rounded crown with dark green leaves. However, it is most known for its yellowish-green fruit, which is rich in nutrients and has a strong aroma and flavor.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Caryocaraceae |
| Genus | Caryocar |
Appearance
The Caryocar glabrum tree has a straight, cylindrical trunk that can reach a diameter of up to 1 meter. The bark is dark brown and rough, with deep fissures. Its leaves are simple, alternate, and oblong-shaped, with a shiny, leathery texture and a bright green color. The tree is deciduous, shedding its leaves during the dry season. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, and they bloom in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a large, spherical drupe with a hard, woody shell that contains a yellowish pulp and one or two large seeds.
Care Guide
The Caryocar glabrum tree is a hardy species that can grow in a variety of soil types and climates. However, it prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter and full sun exposure. It is also tolerant of drought and can survive long periods without water. Here are some tips on how to care for your Caryocar glabrum tree:
- Water: Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the dormant season.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring, and repeat every 6 months.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The tree requires full sun exposure to thrive.
- Hardiness Zones: The Caryocar glabrum tree is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Caryocar glabrum tree is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common issues. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that can affect this species:
- Leaf spot: A fungal disease that causes circular spots on the leaves.
- Scale insects: Small, sap-sucking insects that can weaken the tree and reduce its vigor.
- Borers: Insects that bore into the trunk or branches, causing damage and weakening the tree.
- Root rot: A fungal disease that affects the roots, causing them to rot and eventually killing the tree.
Habitat
The Caryocar glabrum tree is native to the Amazon basin in South America, where it grows in tropical rainforests and savannas. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun exposure, but can also tolerate some shade. The tree is an important source of food and income for many indigenous communities in the Amazon, who harvest the fruit and use the oil extracted from its seeds for cooking and medicinal purposes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Caryocar glabrum tree easy to grow?
A: Yes, the Caryocar glabrum tree is a hardy species that can grow in a variety of soil types and climates. However, it prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter and full sun exposure.
Q: What is the fruit of the Caryocar glabrum tree used for?
A: The fruit of the Caryocar glabrum tree is edible and has a strong aroma and flavor. It is an important source of food and income for many indigenous communities in the Amazon, who harvest the fruit and use the oil extracted from its seeds for cooking and medicinal purposes.
Q: What are the most common pests and diseases that affect the Caryocar glabrum tree?
A: Some of the most common pests and diseases that can affect the Caryocar glabrum tree include leaf spot, scale insects, borers, and root rot.
Q: Where is the Caryocar glabrum tree native to?
A: The Caryocar glabrum tree is native to the Amazon basin in South America.
Related Plants
- Caryocar brasiliense
- Caryocar nuciferum
- Caryocar villosum
- Caryocar microcarpum
References
- “Caryocar glabrum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286131.
- “Caryocar glabrum.” Useful Tropical Plants, tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Caryocar+glabrum.
- “Pequi.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 27 June 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pequi.
