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Description
Chrysophyllum Mexicanum, commonly known as Mexican Star Apple, is a tropical fruit tree that belongs to the Sapotaceae family. It is native to Mexico and Central America, and is widely cultivated in other tropical regions around the world. The tree can grow up to 15 meters tall and produces a round, purple fruit with a sweet, juicy pulp and a single seed in the center.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Sapotaceae |
| Genus | Chrysophyllum |
Appearance
The Mexican Star Apple tree has glossy, dark green leaves that are elliptical in shape and can grow up to 12 cm long. The tree produces small, white, fragrant flowers that bloom in clusters. The fruit of the tree is round with a diameter of 5-10 cm and has a purple or greenish-black skin. The flesh is white or yellowish and is sweet and juicy. The fruit has a single seed in the center that is hard and brown.
Care Guide
Water: Mexican Star Apple trees require regular watering, especially during the dry season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: The tree should be fertilized regularly with a balanced fertilizer to encourage growth and fruit production.
Soil: Mexican Star Apple trees prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
Sunlight: The tree requires full sun exposure to thrive and produce fruit.
Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA Zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Mexican Star Apple tree is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:
- Fruit flies
- Mites
- Scale insects
- Fungal diseases such as anthracnose
To prevent infestations and diseases, it is important to maintain proper hygiene and remove any infected or damaged plant material.
Habitat
Chrysophyllum Mexicanum is native to Mexico and Central America, and is commonly found in tropical regions around the world. It thrives in warm, humid environments and can be grown in areas with an average annual temperature of 25-30°C.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Mexican Star Apple tree easy to grow?
A: Yes, the tree is relatively easy to grow, but requires proper care and attention to produce healthy fruit.
Q: How long does it take for the tree to produce fruit?
A: The tree can take 4-5 years to produce fruit, but can continue to produce fruit for up to 30 years.
Q: Is the fruit of the Mexican Star Apple tree edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible and has a sweet, juicy pulp.
Q: Can the tree be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown in a container, but may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Related Plants
- Chrysophyllum argenteum
- Chrysophyllum cainito
- Chrysophyllum oliviforme
- Chrysophyllum viride
References
- “Chrysophyllum mexicanum – Plants of the World Online.” Kew Science, Kew Science, 2017, plants.jstor.org/compilation/chrysophyllum.mexicanum.
- “Mexican Star Apple.” Purdue University Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Purdue University, 2021, hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/mexican_star_apple.html.
- “Chrysophyllum mexicanum.” Useful Tropical Plants, Useful Tropical Plants Database, 2021, tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Chrysophyllum+mexicanum.
