Governor's plum, Indian plum, Ramphal
flacourtia jangomas
Also known as: ["Governor's plum","Indian plum","Ramphal","Governor plum","Flacourtia inermis"]
Overview
A tropical fruit tree native to Southeast Asia, known for its small, round, edible fruits with a sweet-sour flavor.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Genus: | Flacourtia |
| Botanical Name: | Flacourtia jangomas |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions, or as a container plant in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required unless in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust to dappled light in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid leaf burn; provide shade during peak afternoon sun in hot climates; protect from strong winds that can scorch leaves.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; rotate plant for even growth; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in tropical to subtropical conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute liquid fertilizer to half strength; avoid fertilizing dry soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut just below a node.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F / 24–29°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone powder or gel recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment in new pot takes 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage lateral growth; remove crossing or crowded stems.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood to maintain health and productivity.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts just above a bud or branch junction; dispose of pruned material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for young plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in shaded area for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or wilting in extreme cold; scorching or leaf curl in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop; prolonged cold can damage roots and lead to dieback.
Solution: Protect from frost with frost cloth; move potted plants indoors; avoid watering during cold spells to prevent frozen soil.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water deeply in the morning to cool roots.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; follow dilution instructions; apply during active growth; avoid dormant periods.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to summer); reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if they consume large quantities of Flacourtia jangomas berries, primarily due to saponins.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Flacourtia jangomas can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested in large amounts due to the presence of saponins.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicFlacourtia jangomas berries contain small amounts of saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if consumed in large quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to digestive discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Flacourtia jangomas suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is a tropical fruit tree that requires outdoor space and full sunlight.
Q: How often should I water Flacourtia jangomas?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings, especially during the growing season.
Q: Does Flacourtia jangomas require pruning?
A: Yes, pruning is recommended to maintain shape and encourage fruit production.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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