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Description
Pouteria Guianensis, commonly known as Abiu or Yellow Star Apple, is a tropical fruit tree that belongs to the Sapotaceae family. It is native to the Amazon region of Brazil, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and Venezuela. The fruit of Pouteria Guianensis has a round shape, and it can grow up to 4 inches in diameter. The skin is thin, and it ranges from yellow to pale green in color. The pulp is white and creamy, with a sweet and juicy flavor. The fruit is rich in vitamins A and C, calcium, and phosphorus, making it a nutritious addition to any diet.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Sapotaceae |
| Genus | Pouteria |
| Species | Pouteria Guianensis |
Appearance
Pouteria Guianensis is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 40 feet tall. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and lanceolate in shape, with a length of 3 to 10 inches. The tree produces small, white, and fragrant flowers that are followed by round fruits. The fruit has a thin, smooth, and waxy skin that is yellow to pale green in color. The pulp is white and creamy, with a gelatinous texture and a sweet and juicy flavor. The fruit contains one to four seeds that are brown and flattened.
Care Guide
To grow Pouteria Guianensis, you need to provide it with the following care:
Water
Pouteria Guianensis requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Water the tree deeply once a week, making sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer every three months during the growing season. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Soil
Pouteria Guianensis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5.
Sunlight
Pouteria Guianensis requires full sun to grow and produce fruit. Plant the tree in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
Pouteria Guianensis grows best in USDA hardiness zones 10 to 12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pouteria Guianensis is susceptible to the following pests and diseases:
Pests
– Fruit flies- Mealybugs- Scale insects- Thrips
Diseases
– Anthracnose- Fruit rot- Leaf spot- Powdery mildew
Habitat
Pouteria Guianensis is native to the Amazon region of Brazil, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and Venezuela. It grows in tropical rainforests and can be found at elevations of up to 1,500 feet. The tree prefers well-drained soils and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: How long does it take for Pouteria Guianensis to bear fruit?
A: Pouteria Guianensis can take up to five years to bear fruit.
Q: Can Pouteria Guianensis be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Pouteria Guianensis can be grown in a container, but it will require regular pruning and fertilization.
Q: How often should I prune Pouteria Guianensis?
A: Prune Pouteria Guianensis once a year, preferably during the dormant season, to promote healthy growth.
Q: How do I know when Pouteria Guianensis fruit is ripe?
A: Pouteria Guianensis fruit is ripe when the skin turns yellow and the fruit gives slightly when gently squeezed.
Related Plants
– Pouteria Caimito- Pouteria Sapota- Pouteria Viridis
References
– “Pouteria Guianensis.” Purdue University Horticulture and Landscape Architecture. https://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/yellow_star_apple.html- “Pouteria Guianensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=m730- “Pouteria Guianensis.” PlantFiles. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/111006/
