Lansium

Description

Lansium is a genus of tropical fruit trees belonging to the Meliaceae family. The trees are native to Southeast Asia, but they are also cultivated in other tropical regions around the world. The most well-known species in this genus is Lansium domesticum, commonly known as langsat or lanzones.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Lansium tree can grow up to 30 meters tall, but it is usually pruned to a height of 10-15 meters for easy harvesting. The leaves are pinnate, with 5-7 leaflets, and can grow up to 30 cm long. The flowers are small and white, and they grow in clusters. The fruit of the Lansium tree is spherical, about 2-3 cm in diameter, and covered in a thin, yellowish-brown skin. The flesh is translucent, juicy, and sweet, with a slightly sour taste.

Care Guide

The Lansium tree requires regular watering and fertilization to grow well. It prefers well-draining soil and full sunlight. The tree is hardy in tropical climates, and it can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C. It is suitable for growing in USDA hardiness zones 10-12.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Lansium tree is susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, including leaf-eating caterpillars, fruit flies, and fungal infections. To prevent infestations, it is important to keep the tree and surrounding area clean and free of debris. Regular application of insecticides and fungicides may also be necessary.

Habitat

The Lansium tree is native to Southeast Asia, where it grows in the tropical rainforests of Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. It is also cultivated in other tropical regions around the world, including South and Central America, Africa, and the Caribbean.

Question and Answer

Q: How do you know when Lansium fruit is ripe?
A: The fruit of the Lansium tree ripens about 2 months after flowering. When the fruit turns yellow, it is ready to be harvested.

Q: Can you grow Lansium in a container?
A: Yes, Lansium can be grown in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate the root system. However, it may not produce as much fruit as a tree grown in the ground.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Lansium tree?
A: The Lansium tree should be fertilized every 2-3 months during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

Q: Is Lansium fruit good for you?
A: Yes, Lansium fruit is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and calcium. It is also low in calories and high in fiber.

Related Plants

• Aglaia
• Cedrela
• Sandoricum
• Swietenia

References

• Lim, T. K. (2012). Edible Medicinal and Non-Medicinal Plants: Volume 2, Fruits. Springer Science & Business Media.
• Mabberley, D. J. (2017). Mabberley’s Plant-Book. Cambridge University Press.
• Morton, J. F. (1987). Fruits of Warm Climates. Creative Resource Systems, Inc.