Pappea Capensis

Description

Pappea Capensis, also known as the Jacket Plum, is a small tree or shrub that is native to South Africa. It belongs to the Anacardiaceae family, which includes other well-known plants such as mangoes and cashews. The tree has a rounded crown, and its bark is brown and rough. The leaves are dark green and shiny, with a leathery texture. The flowers are small and white, with a sweet fragrance, and they bloom in late winter or early spring. The fruit is a small, round, yellow or reddish-brown drupe, which is edible and has a sweet-tart taste.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Pappea Capensis tree can grow up to 5-8 meters tall, and its crown can be up to 4 meters wide. The bark is dark brown and rough, with vertical lines and cracks. The leaves are simple, alternate, and elliptical, with a glossy, dark green surface and a lighter green underside. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, with 5 petals and 5 sepals. The fruit is a small, round, yellow or reddish-brown drupe, which is 2-3 cm in diameter and has a thin, juicy pulp.

Care Guide

The Pappea Capensis tree is easy to care for, and it can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. Here are some tips for growing and caring for this tree:

• Water: The tree needs regular watering, especially during the growing season. Water deeply once a week, and make sure the soil is well-drained.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year, in the spring, with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package.
• Soil: The tree prefers well-drained, fertile soil. If the soil is too heavy or too sandy, amend it with organic matter, such as compost or peat moss.
• Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not produce as much fruit.
• Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 23°F (-5°C).

Common Pests & Diseases

The Pappea Capensis tree is relatively pest-free and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to the following pests and diseases:

• Scales: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the leaves and stems, causing yellowing, wilting, and stunting. Treat with a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
• Caterpillars: These larvae can chew the leaves, causing holes and defoliation. Treat with a Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray.
• Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spots, twig dieback, and fruit rot. Treat with a fungicide spray.
• Root rot: This fungal disease can cause the roots to rot and the tree to wilt and die. Prevent by ensuring well-drained soil and avoiding overwatering.

Habitat

The Pappea Capensis tree is native to South Africa, where it grows in a variety of habitats, from coastal dunes to mountain slopes. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate drought and frost. The tree is also cultivated in other parts of the world, such as Australia and California, where it is grown for its edible fruit and ornamental value.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Pappea Capensis a fruit tree?

A: Yes, Pappea Capensis produces edible fruit that is sweet-tart in flavor.

Q: How tall does Pappea Capensis grow?

A: Pappea Capensis can grow up to 5-8 meters tall, with a crown up to 4 meters wide.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Pappea Capensis?

A: Pappea Capensis is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as 23°F (-5°C).

Q: How often should I water my Pappea Capensis tree?

A: Water your Pappea Capensis tree deeply once a week, especially during the growing season. Make sure the soil is well-drained.

Related Plants

• Mango (Mangifera indica)
• Cashew (Anacardium occidentale)
• Pistachio (Pistacia vera)
• Sumac (Rhus spp.)

References

• “Pappea Capensis.” PlantZAfrica. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 25 May 2021. <http://pza.sanbi.org/pappea-capensis>.
• “Pappea Capensis.” World Agroforestry Centre. CGIAR, n.d. Web. 25 May 2021. <https://www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb2/AFTPDFS/Pappea_capensis.PDF>.