Contents
Description
Swinglea is a genus of flowering plants in the family Rutaceae. It is named after its discoverer, botanist Walter Tennyson Swingle. The genus contains only one species, Swinglea glutinosa, which is commonly known as the “yellow mombin” or “mangotin”. It is a small tree or shrub that is native to Central America and northern South America. Swinglea is popular among gardeners for its attractive fruits and foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Swinglea |
Appearance
Swinglea has glossy, dark green leaves that are pinnate and up to 20 cm long. The leaves are alternate and have 6-10 pairs of leaflets. The plant produces small, fragrant flowers that are white or pale yellow in color. The flowers are followed by large, oblong or elliptical fruits that are up to 15 cm long and 7 cm wide. The fruits are green when unripe and turn yellow when they ripen. They have a sweet and sour taste, similar to that of a mango.
Care Guide
Swinglea is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to keep your Swinglea healthy:
- Water: Swinglea prefers regular watering, but be careful not to overwater as this can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season.
- Soil: Swinglea prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Swinglea prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Swinglea is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Swinglea is relatively pest and disease free, but it can be susceptible to leaf spot and root rot. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves. It can be treated with a fungicide.
- Root rot: Root rot is caused by overwatering and can be prevented by ensuring the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Swinglea is native to Central America and northern South America. It grows in tropical forests and can be found at elevations up to 1000 meters above sea level. Swinglea is cultivated in many parts of the world for its fruits.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Swinglea be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Swinglea can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Swinglea?
A: Fertilize your Swinglea every 2-3 months during the growing season.
Q: What is the taste of Swinglea fruits?
A: The fruits of Swinglea have a sweet and sour taste, similar to that of a mango.
Q: Where is Swinglea native to?
A: Swinglea is native to Central America and northern South America.
Related Plants
- Citrus
- Ruta
- Zanthoxylum
References
- “Swinglea glutinosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed May 18, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286139.
- “Swinglea.” Flora of North America. Accessed May 18, 2021. http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=135541.
