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Description
Pouteria Reticulata, commonly known as Canistel or Eggfruit, is a tropical fruit tree native to Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. It belongs to the Sapotaceae family and is a close relative of the Mamey Sapote. The tree can grow up to 10-30 feet tall and produces oblong or pear-shaped fruit that can weigh up to 1 pound. The fruit’s flesh is sweet and has a texture similar to a hard-boiled egg yolk. It can be consumed fresh, cooked, or used in desserts.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Sapotaceae |
| Genus | Pouteria |
Appearance
Pouteria Reticulata leaves are evergreen and can grow up to 6 inches long and 2 inches wide. The tree’s flowers are small, bell-shaped, and yellowish-white in color. The fruit can be oblong or pear-shaped and is typically 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. When ripe, the fruit’s skin turns yellow and the flesh becomes soft and custard-like.
Care Guide
Pouteria Reticulata requires regular maintenance to grow and produce fruit. Here are some care tips:Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant season.Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season.Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH level between 5.5-7.5 is ideal.Sunlight: Pouteria Reticulata thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pouteria Reticulata can be susceptible to pests and diseases, including:Pests: Fruit flies, mealybugs, and scale insects can infest the tree and damage the fruit.Diseases: Anthracnose, root rot, and powdery mildew can affect the tree’s growth and fruit production.
Habitat
Pouteria Reticulata is native to the tropical regions of Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. The tree thrives in warm, humid climates and can grow in a variety of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Question and Answer
Q: How long does it take for Pouteria Reticulata to bear fruit?
A: The tree can begin to produce fruit within 3-4 years of planting.Q: Can Pouteria Reticulata grow in containers?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with adequate space and nutrients.Q: How should I prune Pouteria Reticulata?
A: Prune the tree in the late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches and to shape the tree.Q: Can I grow Pouteria Reticulata from seed?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown from seed but it may take several years to produce fruit.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Pouteria Reticulata:- Mamey Sapote (Pouteria sapota)- Green Sapote (Pouteria viridis)- Lucuma (Pouteria lucuma)
References
– Morton, J. (1987). Canistel. Fruits of warm climates. Julia F. Morton, Miami, FL.- Hodel, D. R. (2007). Canistel. University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. – Pouteria reticulata (Kunth) Baehni. (n.d.). Plants of the World Online. Kew Science.
