Hancornia

Description

Hancornia, also known as mangabeira, is a tropical fruit tree that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. It is native to Central and South America, particularly Brazil, where it is commonly found in the Cerrado region. Hancornia produces a small, yellow or orange fruit that is similar in taste to mango or peach. The tree can grow up to 12 meters tall and has a thick, gray-brown bark.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Hancornia has a tall, straight trunk that can reach up to 12 meters in height. The tree has a thick, gray-brown bark that is rough and fissured. Its leaves are simple, opposite, and lanceolate, with a length of 8-15 cm and width of 2-4 cm. They are shiny, dark green, and have a leathery texture. Hancornia produces small, fragrant flowers that are greenish-yellow in color and have a diameter of 1-2 cm. Its fruit is round or oval-shaped, with a diameter of 3-5 cm. The fruit has a thin, smooth skin that is yellow or orange in color and contains a white, juicy pulp with a sweet and slightly acidic taste.

Care Guide

Water

Hancornia requires regular watering during the growing season, especially in hot and dry climates. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and the tree should be watered deeply once or twice a week.

Fertilization

Hancornia benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season, especially with a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilizer should be applied every 6-8 weeks, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Soil

Hancornia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0, and it should be amended with compost or other organic matter to improve its nutrient content and water-holding capacity.

Sunlight

Hancornia requires full sun to thrive and produce fruit. It should be planted in a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Hardiness Zones

Hancornia is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Hancornia is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:- Fruit fly: This pest can damage the fruit and reduce yields. It can be controlled with insecticidal sprays or baits.- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spots, fruit rot, and dieback. It can be controlled with fungicidal sprays and good sanitation practices.- Root rot: This fungal disease can be caused by overwatering or poor drainage. It can be prevented by ensuring the soil is well-draining and avoiding overwatering.

Habitat

Hancornia is native to Central and South America, particularly Brazil, where it is commonly found in the Cerrado region. It grows in a variety of habitats, including savannas, dry forests, and scrublands. Hancornia is an important source of food and income for local people, who use its fruit for juice, jam, and other products.

Question and Answer

Q: How long does it take for Hancornia to produce fruit?

A: Hancornia typically begins to produce fruit when it is 5-7 years old, although it may take up to 10 years for the tree to reach full production.

Q: Can Hancornia be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Hancornia can be grown in containers, but it requires a large container that can accommodate its size.

Q: Is Hancornia drought-tolerant?

A: Hancornia is somewhat drought-tolerant, but it requires regular watering during the growing season to produce fruit.

Q: What is the nutritional value of Hancornia fruit?

A: Hancornia fruit is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

Related Plants

– Carissa macrocarpa- Garcinia mangostana- Psidium guajava- Spondias dulcis

References

– Lorenzi, H. (2009). Árvores Brasileiras (Vol. 3). Instituto Plantarum de Estudos da Flora.- Morton, J. F. (1987). Fruits of warm climates (No. 16). Miami, FL: J.F. Morton.- USDA. (2021). Hancornia. Retrieved from https://www.ars-grin.gov/cgi-bin/npgs/html/genus.pl?5322.