Bactris gasipaes
TAXONOMY
FamilyArecaceae
GenusBactris
Zone10
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Bactris gasipaes, commonly known as the peach palm, is a tropical tree native to Central and South America. It is part of the Arecaceae family and is known for its edible fruit and heart of palm. The tree thrives in wet tropical climates and can grow up to 20 meters tall. It is a hardwood species and is often cultivated for its fruit and other uses.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Peach Palm
Guilielma gasipaes
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterVery Wet
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity80%
GDD5,475
pH6
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Peach palm trees require bright, direct sunlight and thrive in warm, humid conditions. They prefer consistently wet soil and should be watered regularly to maintain moisture. The ideal temperature for growth is around 25°C, and they do well in high humidity environments. Regular pruning is necessary to maintain the tree's shape and health.Harvest
Bactris gasipaes, commonly known as peach palm, is typically harvested when the fruits are fully ripe, which is indicated by a change in color to a bright orange or red. Harvesting is usually done manually by cutting the fruit clusters from the tree using a machete or a similar tool. It is important to handle the fruits carefully to avoid bruising. The fruits should be harvested during the dry season to minimize the risk of fungal infections. After harvesting, the fruits are often boiled or steamed to remove the skin and make them ready for consumption or further processing.Soil
Bactris gasipaes prefers loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be well-draining but kept consistently moist. A slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal for optimal growth.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the tree regularly during the growing season to ensure it receives the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.Repotting
Repotting is generally not required for peach palm trees grown outdoors. However, if grown in a container, repotting should be done every 2-3 years to provide fresh soil and adequate space for root growth.Propagation
Peach palm trees can be propagated from seeds or by dividing suckers from the base of the tree. Seed propagation should be done in a warm, humid environment, while sucker division can be done during the growing season.Pruning
Pruning is necessary to remove dead or damaged fronds and to maintain the tree's shape. Prune during the growing season, taking care not to remove too many fronds at once.Toxicity
Bactris gasipaes is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. The fruit and heart of palm are edible and commonly consumed.Additional
Peach palm trees are also valued for their ornamental appeal and can be used in landscaping in tropical regions. They are relatively low-maintenance once established but require consistent care during the early growth stages.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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