Casimiroa edulis
TAXONOMY
FamilyRutaceae
GenusCasimiroa
Zone10
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Casimiroa edulis, commonly known as the white sapote, is a fruit-bearing tree native to Central America. It belongs to the Rutaceae family and thrives in seasonally dry tropical climates. The tree can grow up to 15 meters tall and produces greenish-yellow fruits that are sweet and custard-like. It has a dormancy period of about 2 months during the cooler season.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Fagara Bombacifolia
White Sapote
Casimiroa
Casimiroa edulis f. microcarpa
Casimiroa sapota
Casimiroa sapota f. comitana
Casimiroa sapota f. costarricensis
Casimiroa sapota f. glabrata
Casimiroa sapota f. jaliscana
Casimiroa sapota f. macrocarpa
Casimiroa sapota f. ovandoensis
Casimiroa sapota var. villosa
Mexican apple
Mexican-apple
Zanthoxylum araliaceum
Zanthoxylum bombacifolium
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
GDD5,475
Dormancy2 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
White sapote trees require bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. They thrive in moderate temperatures and prefer a humid environment. Regular watering is essential, but the soil should be allowed to dry out partially between waterings. The tree can tolerate short periods of drought but performs best with consistent moisture.Harvest
Casimiroa edulis, commonly known as white sapote, is typically harvested when the fruit is fully mature and slightly soft to the touch, which usually occurs in late summer to early fall. To harvest, gently twist or cut the fruit from the tree to avoid damaging the branches. It is important to handle the fruit carefully as it bruises easily. The fruit should be picked when it has a slight give to it, indicating ripeness. Post-harvest, the fruit can be stored at room temperature until it reaches the desired level of ripeness.Soil
White sapote trees prefer well-draining loam soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept moderately moist but not waterlogged. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 is recommended. Fertilize the tree every 6-8 weeks during the growing season to support healthy growth and fruit production.Repotting
Young white sapote trees can be repotted every 2-3 years to provide fresh soil and more space for root growth. When repotting, choose a slightly larger pot and ensure good drainage. Repotting is best done in the early spring before the growing season begins.Propagation
White sapote can be propagated through seeds or grafting. Seeds should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until germination. Grafting is often used to ensure the new plant retains the desirable traits of the parent tree. Propagation is best done in the spring.Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and health of the white sapote tree. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove dead or diseased branches and thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.Toxicity
White sapote is generally non-toxic to pets and humans. However, the seeds contain small amounts of cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when ingested in large quantities. It is advisable to avoid consuming the seeds.Additional
White sapote trees can be susceptible to pests such as aphids and scale insects. Regular monitoring and appropriate pest control measures can help keep the tree healthy. Mulching around the base of the tree can help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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