Contents
Description
Garcinia Madruno, also known as Madrono, is a tropical fruit tree that belongs to the Clusiaceae family. It is native to the humid forests of Central and South America, and is widely cultivated in these regions. The tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and produces small, round fruits that are about the size of a golf ball. The fruit has a yellowish-orange skin and a juicy, sour-sweet pulp that is commonly used in traditional medicine and culinary applications.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Clusiaceae |
| Genus | Garcinia |
Appearance
The Garcinia Madruno tree has a straight trunk with a dark brown bark that is lightly furrowed. The branches spread out in a horizontal manner, forming a dense canopy of glossy green leaves that are obovate in shape and about 10-15cm long. The tree produces small, white flowers that are about 1-2cm in diameter and have five petals. The fruit of the Garcinia Madruno is round and about 5cm in diameter, with a yellowish-orange skin that is thin and smooth. The fruit has a juicy, sour-sweet pulp that is yellowish in color and contains a few large seeds.
Care Guide
Garcinia Madruno trees require adequate care to thrive and produce good quality fruits. Here are some tips on how to care for your Garcinia Madruno tree:
Water: The tree requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, to avoid root rot.
Fertilization: The tree requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and fruit production. A balanced fertilizer can be applied every three months during the growing season.
Soil: Garcinia Madruno trees prefer well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 5.5 and 6.5.
Sunlight: The tree requires full sun exposure to thrive and produce good quality fruits.
Hardiness Zones: Garcinia Madruno trees are best suited for tropical and subtropical regions, and can grow in USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Garcinia Madruno trees are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including:
Fruit flies: These insects can damage the fruit by laying eggs in the pulp, causing it to rot.
Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spots and fruit rot, and can be controlled by using fungicides.
Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly drained soils, and can be prevented by ensuring proper soil drainage.
Habitat
Garcinia Madruno trees are native to the humid forests of Central and South America, and can be found growing in the wild in countries such as Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. The tree prefers moist, well-draining soils and full sun exposure, and can grow up to 20 meters tall.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the nutritional value of Garcinia Madruno fruits?
A: Garcinia Madruno fruits are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, and are low in calories.
Q: How can I propagate Garcinia Madruno trees?
A: Garcinia Madruno trees can be propagated by seed or cuttings.
Q: What are some common culinary uses of Garcinia Madruno fruits?
A: Garcinia Madruno fruits are commonly used to make jams, jellies, and sauces, and can also be eaten fresh or used in salads.
Q: How long does it take for Garcinia Madruno trees to bear fruit?
A: Garcinia Madruno trees usually start bearing fruit after three to four years of planting.
Related Plants
- Garcinia Cambogia
- Garcinia Mangostana
- Garcinia Kola
References
- “Garcinia Madruno.” Purdue University Horticulture and Landscape Architecture. Accessed 22 June 2021. https://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/madrono.html
- “Garcinia Madruno.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 22 June 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:163391-2
- “Madrono (Garcinia madruno).” Fruitipedia. Accessed 22 June 2021. https://www.fruitipedia.com/madrono_garcinia_madruno/
