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Description
Parmentiera aculeata, also known as guajilote or the guajilote tree, is a small to medium-sized tree native to Central America and Mexico. It is a member of the Bignoniaceae family and is prized for its edible fruit. The fruit of the guajilote tree is commonly consumed in Mexico and is also used in traditional medicine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Bignoniaceae |
| Genus | Parmentiera |
Appearance
The guajilote tree can grow up to 30 feet tall and has a spread of up to 20 feet. It has a rounded crown, with a thick trunk and branches covered in spines. The leaves are pinnate, with 3-5 leaflets, and are up to 12 inches long. The flowers are tubular and pinkish-purple, measuring up to 2 inches in length. The fruit is a large, oblong berry, up to 8 inches long, with a green, warty exterior and white, juicy flesh inside.
Care Guide
The guajilote tree is easy to care for and requires little maintenance. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but can tolerate light shade. Water regularly, but do not overwater, as the tree is susceptible to root rot. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. The guajilote tree is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The guajilote tree is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as anthracnose and powdery mildew. These can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the tree and avoiding overhead watering. Insects, such as scale and mealybugs, can also be a problem. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The guajilote tree is native to Central America and Mexico, and is commonly found in the tropical and subtropical regions of these areas. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but can tolerate light shade. The tree is often found in open areas, such as fields and pastures, but can also be found in forests and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the fruit of the guajilote tree edible?
A: Yes, the fruit of the guajilote tree is edible and is commonly consumed in Mexico.
Q: What is the best soil type for the guajilote tree?
A: The guajilote tree prefers well-drained soil.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the guajilote tree?
A: The guajilote tree is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Q: How often should I fertilize my guajilote tree?
A: Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Parmentiera cereifera
- Parmentiera edulis
- Parmentiera hintonii
- Parmentiera macrophylla
References
- “Parmentiera aculeata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d416.
- “Parmentiera aculeata.” Plants of the World Online. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:109868-2.
- “Parmentiera aculeata.” The Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/27933/i-Parmentiera-aculeata-i/Details.
