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Description
Spondias Mombin, also known as the yellow mombin or hog plum, is a tropical fruit tree that is native to the Americas. It belongs to the Anacardiaceae family, which also includes cashews and mangoes. The tree can reach up to 30 feet in height and has a dense, rounded crown. It produces small, yellow or red fruit that are tart and juicy, with a flavor similar to that of an apricot.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Spondias |
Appearance
The leaves of the Spondias Mombin tree are pinnate and can reach up to 20 inches in length. The tree produces small, fragrant flowers that are either yellow or white. The fruit is oval-shaped and ranges in size from 1 to 3 inches. The skin of the fruit is thin and smooth, and the flesh is yellow or red and juicy. The fruit contains a large, flat seed that is not edible.
Care Guide
Spondias Mombin trees prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They should be watered regularly during the growing season, but care should be taken not to overwater them. Fertilize the tree once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 10 and 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Spondias Mombin trees are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including fruit flies, mealybugs, and anthracnose. Fruit flies can be controlled with traps or by using insecticides. Mealybugs can be removed by hand or with insecticidal soap. Anthracnose can be controlled by pruning infected branches and using fungicides.
Habitat
Spondias Mombin trees are native to the Americas and can be found in tropical regions from Mexico to Brazil. They prefer wet, lowland areas and are often found growing near rivers and streams.
Question and Answer
Q: How long does it take for a Spondias Mombin tree to bear fruit?
A: Spondias Mombin trees typically begin producing fruit within 3 to 5 years of planting.
Q: Is the seed of the Spondias Mombin fruit edible?
A: No, the seed is not edible.
Q: Can Spondias Mombin trees tolerate drought?
A: No, Spondias Mombin trees require regular watering and cannot tolerate drought.
Q: How do you propagate Spondias Mombin trees?
A: Spondias Mombin trees can be propagated by seed or by grafting onto rootstock of a closely related species.
Related Plants
- Spondias purpurea
- Spondias radlkoferi
- Spondias venulosa
References
- https://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/yellow_mombin.html
- https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/st543
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/hog-plum/growing-hog-plums.htm
