Contents
Description
Pouteria Campechiana, also known as Canistel or Eggfruit, is a small to medium-sized tree that belongs to the Sapotaceae family. This tree is native to Southern Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America. It produces an edible fruit that has a sweet and custard-like flavor. The fruit is usually consumed fresh, but it can also be used to make ice cream, pies, and other desserts. The tree is also grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and fruit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ebenales |
| Family | Sapotaceae |
| Genus | Pouteria |
Appearance
The Pouteria Campechiana tree can grow up to 8-10 meters tall, and it has a dense and spreading crown. The leaves are simple, alternately arranged, and have an oblong to elliptic shape. The leaves are usually 15-25 cm long and 5-8 cm wide. The tree produces small white flowers that are fragrant and bloom in clusters. The fruit of the Pouteria Campechiana tree is oval to oblong in shape and can be up to 10 cm long and 5 cm wide. The fruit has a thin yellow or orange skin and a yellow to orange pulp that is sweet and custard-like.
Care Guide
The Pouteria Campechiana tree prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. Fertilization should be done once or twice a year using a balanced fertilizer. The tree prefers full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. The Pouteria Campechiana tree is hardy to USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Pouteria Campechiana tree is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by root rot, anthracnose, and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by maintaining good soil drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
The Pouteria Campechiana tree is native to Southern Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America. It grows in tropical and subtropical regions and can be found in forests, woodlands, and savannas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Pouteria Campechiana tree be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the Pouteria Campechiana tree can be grown in a container as long as it is provided with adequate soil and water.
Q: When is the best time to harvest the fruit of the Pouteria Campechiana tree?
A: The fruit of the Pouteria Campechiana tree is usually harvested when it is fully ripe and has a yellow or orange color.
Q: Is the Pouteria Campechiana tree frost-tolerant?
A: No, the Pouteria Campechiana tree is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from frost.
Q: How often should the Pouteria Campechiana tree be pruned?
A: The Pouteria Campechiana tree should be pruned once a year to remove dead or diseased branches and to maintain its shape.
Related Plants
- Pouteria sapota (Mamey Sapote)
- Pouteria lucuma (Lucuma)
- Pouteria caimito (Abiu)
- Pouteria viridis (Green Sapote)
References
- https://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/eggfruit.html
- https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/st214
- https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/46969
