Diospyros nigra
TAXONOMY
FamilyEbenaceae
GenusDiospyros
Zone10
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Diospyros nigra, commonly known as the Black Sapote or Chocolate Pudding Fruit, is a tropical fruit tree native to Mexico, the Philippines, and Central America. It belongs to the Ebenaceae family and the Diospyros genus. The tree can grow up to 25 meters tall and produces green fruits that turn dark brown when ripe, with a taste and texture reminiscent of chocolate pudding.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Black Persimmon
Diospyros digyna
Diospyros edulis
Diospyros nigra
Diospyros obtusifolia
Diospyros pauciflora
Diospyros sapota
Diospyros sapotanigera
Diospyros tliltzapotl
Sapota nigra
OVERVIEW
WaterVery Wet
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity80%
GDD2,700
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Diospyros nigra thrives in warm, tropical climates with high humidity. It requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth and should be kept in temperatures around 25°C. Regular watering is essential to keep the soil consistently wet. The plant benefits from a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.Harvest
Diospyros nigra, commonly known as the black sapote, is typically harvested when the fruit is fully mature and the skin turns from green to a dark olive or black color. The fruit should be soft to the touch, indicating ripeness. Harvesting is usually done by hand, using pruning shears or by gently twisting the fruit off the tree. It is important to handle the fruit carefully to avoid bruising. The best time to harvest is during the dry season to prevent fungal infections. After harvesting, the fruit should be allowed to ripen further at room temperature until it reaches a custard-like consistency.Soil
The Black Sapote prefers well-draining loamy soil that retains moisture. It thrives in soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter to support its nutrient needs.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant during the growing season, typically every 4-6 weeks, to support its growth and fruit production.Repotting
Repot young plants every 2-3 years to provide fresh soil and more space for root growth. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Repotting is best done in the early spring before the growing season begins.Propagation
Diospyros nigra can be propagated through seeds or grafting. Seeds should be sown in a well-draining seed mix and kept moist until germination. Grafting is typically done to ensure the quality and characteristics of the fruit.Pruning
Prune the Black Sapote to maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased branches. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Regular pruning helps improve air circulation and light penetration within the canopy.Toxicity
Diospyros nigra is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. The fruit is edible and enjoyed by many for its unique flavor and texture.Additional
The Black Sapote is often called the 'Chocolate Pudding Fruit' due to its sweet, custard-like flesh that resembles chocolate pudding when ripe. It is a popular ingredient in desserts and smoothies in tropical regions.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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