Matisia Cordata

Description

Matisia Cordata, commonly known as the Andean apricot or Sachamango, is a tropical tree native to South America. It belongs to the family Malvaceae and is a close relative of the Durian fruit. The tree can grow up to 30 meters high and produces large, heart-shaped leaves, and sweet-smelling flowers. The fruit of the Matisia Cordata is highly sought-after for its sweet, tangy, and juicy taste.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Matisia Cordata tree has a broad and dense canopy, which provides ample shade. Its leaves are large, heart-shaped, and shiny green. The tree produces fragrant, white, and pinkish flowers that hang in clusters. The fruit of the tree is round and can grow up to 15 cm in diameter. It has a greenish-yellow skin, which turns brownish-yellow when it ripens. The flesh of the fruit is white, juicy, and sweet, with a flavor similar to a mix of apricots and pineapples.

Care Guide

Matisia Cordata is a tropical tree that thrives in warm and humid conditions. Here are some tips to help care for your plant:

• Water: Matisia Cordata requires frequent watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: The tree requires regular fertilization to ensure healthy growth and fruit production. Use a balanced fertilizer with a 10-10-10 NPK ratio every three months.
• Soil: The Matisia Cordata tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.5 is ideal for the plant.
• Sunlight: The tree requires full sun exposure to thrive. Ensure that it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 12.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Matisia Cordata tree is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including:

• Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth of the tree.
• Spider mites: These pests can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves and can lead to defoliation.
• Fungal diseases: The tree can be affected by various fungal diseases, including anthracnose, root rot, and powdery mildew.

To prevent these pests and diseases, ensure that the tree is well-watered and fertilized. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation, and treat promptly using appropriate pesticides or fungicides.

Habitat

The Matisia Cordata tree is native to the tropical rainforests of South America, where it grows at elevations of up to 2000 meters. It thrives in warm and humid conditions and prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The tree is commonly found in Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, and Brazil.

Question and Answer

Q: What is the taste of the Matisia Cordata fruit?

A: The fruit has a sweet, tangy, and juicy taste, with a flavor similar to a mix of apricots and pineapples.

Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect the Matisia Cordata tree?

A: The tree is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including scale insects, spider mites, and fungal diseases.

Q: What is the ideal soil pH for the Matisia Cordata tree?

A: The tree prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.5.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Matisia Cordata tree?

A: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 12.

Related Plants

• Durian (Durio zibethinus)
• Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus)
• Breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis)
• Cherimoya (Annona cherimola)

References

• “Matisia cordata.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 22 September 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:554182-1.
• “Matisia cordata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 22 September 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=283281.
• “Matisia cordata.” PROTA (Plant Resources of Tropical Africa). Accessed 22 September 2021. https://www.prota4u.org/database/protav8.asp?g=pe&p=Matisia+cordata+(Hook.f.)+Triana.