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Description
Mimusops Elengi, also known as Spanish cherry or bullet wood, is an evergreen tree that belongs to the Sapotaceae family. It is native to South and Southeast Asia and is widely cultivated for its fragrant flowers and edible fruits. The tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a straight trunk that is covered with grayish-brown bark. The leaves are dark green and glossy with a leathery texture, and the flowers are white or cream-colored and have a sweet fragrance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Sapotaceae |
| Genus | Mimusops |
Appearance
The Mimusops Elengi tree has a pyramidal shape and can grow up to 20 meters tall. The leaves are dark green and glossy with a leathery texture, and the flowers are white or cream-colored and have a sweet fragrance. The fruit is a berry that is round or oval-shaped and can be up to 4 centimeters in diameter. The fruit is edible and has a sweet taste when ripe.
Care Guide
Mimusops Elengi requires regular watering and fertilization to grow well. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sunlight. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but it grows best in slightly acidic soil. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-12 and can be grown outdoors in tropical and subtropical regions. In colder regions, it can be grown indoors as a houseplant.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mimusops Elengi is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including mealybugs, scale insects, and leaf spot. Mealybugs and scale insects can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Leaf spot can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Mimusops Elengi is native to South and Southeast Asia and is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. It is commonly found in gardens, parks, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Mimusops Elengi be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Mimusops Elengi can be grown indoors as a houseplant in colder regions.
Q: What is the fruit of Mimusops Elengi used for?
A: The fruit of Mimusops Elengi is edible and has a sweet taste when ripe.
Q: What is the preferred soil type for Mimusops Elengi?
A: Mimusops Elengi prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.
Q: What pests and diseases affect Mimusops Elengi?
A: Mealybugs, scale insects, and leaf spot are common pests and diseases that affect Mimusops Elengi.
Related Plants
- Mimusops elengi var. elongata
- Mimusops kauki
- Mimusops laurifolia
- Mimusops zeylanica
References
- “Mimusops elengi.” Plantz Africa. http://pza.sanbi.org/mimusops-elengi.
- “Mimusops elengi.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287388.
- “Mimusops elengi.” Purdue University. https://hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/duke_energy/Mimusops_elengi.html.
