Contents
Description
Pradosia Ptychandra is a flowering evergreen tree native to the Amazon rainforest. It is also known as the “Sacha Inchi” tree due to its edible seeds that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Pradosia Ptychandra belongs to the family Sapotaceae and is a close relative of the sapodilla tree. It can grow up to 15 meters in height and has a straight trunk with a dense canopy of glossy green leaves. The tree produces small white or yellow flowers that bloom in clusters and are followed by small round fruit that turns yellow when ripe. The fruit has a sweet pulp and a large seed that is surrounded by a thin layer of flesh.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Sapotaceae |
| Genus | Pradosia |
| Species | Ptychandra |
Appearance
Pradosia Ptychandra has a straight trunk that can reach up to one meter in diameter. The tree has a dense canopy of glossy green leaves that are elliptical in shape and arranged in an alternate pattern. The leaves are about 10-20 cm long and have a leathery texture. The tree produces small white or yellow flowers that bloom in clusters from the branches and trunk. The flowers are followed by small round fruit that turns yellow when ripe. The fruit has a sweet pulp and a large seed that is surrounded by a thin layer of flesh.
Care Guide
Water: Pradosia Ptychandra prefers well-drained soil that is kept consistently moist. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter months.Fertilization: Fertilize Pradosia Ptychandra with a balanced fertilizer every six months during the growing season.Soil: Pradosia Ptychandra prefers fertile, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic.Sunlight: Pradosia Ptychandra prefers partial shade to full sun.Hardiness Zones: Pradosia Ptychandra is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pradosia Ptychandra is susceptible to pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. To prevent these pests, keep the tree clean and dry and remove any infested leaves or branches. Pradosia Ptychandra is also susceptible to diseases such as root rot, which can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Pradosia Ptychandra is native to the Amazon rainforest and can be found in Brazil, Peru, and Colombia. It grows in well-drained soil in partially shaded to fully sunlit areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pradosia Ptychandra a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, Pradosia Ptychandra is a fast-growing tree that can grow up to 1.5 meters per year.Q: Are the seeds of Pradosia Ptychandra edible?
A: Yes, the seeds of Pradosia Ptychandra are edible and are rich in omega-3 fatty acids.Q: Does Pradosia Ptychandra have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, Pradosia Ptychandra is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as high blood pressure and inflammation.Q: Can Pradosia Ptychandra be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Pradosia Ptychandra can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with well-draining soil, regular watering, and adequate sunlight.
Related Plants
- Chrysophyllum cainito (Star Apple)
- Manilkara zapota (Sapodilla)
- Pouteria caimito (Abiu)
- Pouteria lucuma (Lucuma)
References
- Pradosia Ptychandra. (n.d.). Retrieved September 16, 2021, from https://www.worldagroforestry.org/treedb/AFTPDFS/Pradosia_ptychandra.PDF
- Pradosia Ptychandra. (n.d.). Retrieved September 16, 2021, from https://florafaunaweb.nparks.gov.sg/special-pages/plant-detail.aspx?id=6285
- Pradosia Ptychandra. (n.d.). Retrieved September 16, 2021, from https://www.rainforesttrust.org/species/pradosia-ptychandra/
