Contents
Description
Synsepalum Dulcificum, commonly known as the Miracle Berry Plant, is a small evergreen shrub native to West Africa. It belongs to the Sapotaceae family and is known for its unique ability to alter taste perception. The plant produces a fruit that contains a glycoprotein called miraculin, which binds to taste receptors on the tongue, making sour and bitter foods taste sweet. This effect can last up to two hours after consuming the fruit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Sapotaceae |
| Genus | Synsepalum |
Appearance
The Miracle Berry Plant grows up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide. It has glossy, dark green leaves that are 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The plant produces small white flowers that are followed by red berries. The berries are about the size of a cranberry and contain a single seed. The fruit has a sweet, mildly tart flavor before consuming and a sweet, almost candy-like flavor after consuming.
Care Guide
The Miracle Berry Plant is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures and high humidity. It can be grown indoors in containers or outdoors in warm, humid climates. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Fertilization: Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining, acidic soil with a pH of 4.5-5.5.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: The Miracle Berry Plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Miracle Berry Plant is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases in humid conditions. Here are some common issues:
- Root Rot: Overwatering can cause the roots to rot. Reduce watering and improve drainage.
- Powdery Mildew: A fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Treat with a fungicide.
- Spider Mites: Tiny insects that suck the sap from the leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Miracle Berry Plant is native to West Africa, where it grows in tropical forests. It prefers well-drained soils and high humidity. The plant is now cultivated in other tropical regions around the world, including South America and Southeast Asia.
Question and Answer
Q: How long does the taste-altering effect of the Miracle Berry Plant last?
A: The effect can last up to two hours after consuming the fruit.
Q: Can the Miracle Berry Plant be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in containers.
Q: What is the pH range for the soil of the Miracle Berry Plant?
A: The soil should have a pH of 4.5-5.5.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Miracle Berry Plant?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Synsepalum johannesburgense
- Synsepalum subcordatum
- Synsepalum brevipes
References
- “Synsepalum dulcificum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed July 19, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c341.
- “Miracle Fruit Plant.” Logee’s Plants for Home & Garden. Accessed July 19, 2021. https://www.logees.com/miracle-fruit-plant.html.
- “Synsepalum dulcificum.” Purdue University Center for New Crops and Plant Products. Accessed July 19, 2021. https://hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/CropFactSheets/miraclefruit.html.
