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Description
Diospyros Glabra, also known as the Black Sapote tree, is a tropical evergreen fruit tree that is native to Central and South America. It belongs to the Ebenaceae family and is known for its large, green, and fleshy fruits that resemble tomatoes in shape and size. The tree is commonly grown for its fruit, which is also called the Chocolate Pudding Fruit due to its creamy, chocolatey texture and taste when ripe.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ebanales |
| Family | Ebenaceae |
| Genus | Diospyros |
Appearance
The Black Sapote tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a dense, spreading canopy. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and oval-shaped, with a length of up to 15 centimeters. The tree blooms in the spring and summer, producing small, white, and fragrant flowers that are followed by the fruit. The fruit is typically green and hard when unripe, but turns brownish-black and soft when fully ripe. It can weigh up to 500 grams and has a diameter of up to 10 centimeters.
Care Guide
To grow a healthy and fruitful Black Sapote tree, it is important to provide it with the right care. Here are some tips on how to care for this tree:- Water: The tree requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. Make sure to water it deeply and frequently, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: The tree benefits from regular fertilization, especially during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but avoid planting it in heavy clay soil.- Sunlight: The tree requires full sun to grow and fruit properly. Plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: The Black Sapote tree is native to tropical climates and is not frost-tolerant. It can grow in USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all plants, the Black Sapote tree is susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common ones:- Fruit flies: These pests can cause damage to the fruit by laying eggs inside it. Use sticky traps or insecticides to control them.- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause black spots on the leaves and fruit. Use a fungicide to control it.- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and can lead to the death of the tree. Avoid overwatering and make sure the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
The Black Sapote tree is native to Central and South America, where it grows in tropical forests and lowlands. It prefers warm and humid climates with plenty of rainfall. It is commonly grown in home gardens and orchards in tropical regions around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the best time to harvest Black Sapote fruit?
A: The fruit is ready to harvest when it turns brownish-black and feels soft to the touch. This usually occurs 4-5 months after flowering.
Q: Can Black Sapote fruit be eaten raw?
A: Yes, the fruit can be eaten raw when fully ripe. It can also be used in various desserts and smoothies.
Q: How long does it take for a Black Sapote tree to bear fruit?
A: It can take 3-5 years for a Black Sapote tree to begin bearing fruit.
Q: Is the Black Sapote tree easy to grow?
A: The tree can be challenging to grow in non-tropical climates, but it is relatively easy to grow in its native range.
Related Plants
– Diospyros Kaki (Persimmon)- Diospyros Virginiana (American Persimmon)- Diospyros Celebica (Mabolo)- Diospyros Mespiliformis (West African Ebony)
References
– “Diospyros Glabra.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c595.- “Black Sapote.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/mg214.- “Diospyros Glabra.” Purdue University Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/black_sapote.html.
