Otaheite gooseberry
phyllanthus acidus
Also known as: ["Ceylon gooseberry","Tahitian gooseberry","Star gooseberry"]
Overview
A small tree or shrub native to Southeast Asia, known for its tart, edible berries.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Phyllanthaceae |
| Genus: | Phyllanthus |
| Botanical Name: | Phyllanthus acidus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions, or as a container plant in cooler climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter; cactus mix or sandy loam works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- 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; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to direct sun gradually; protect from intense midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; monitor for leaf burn.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 5.5–7.0.
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for nutrients.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures, 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but prefers stable warmth.
Protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth; avoid sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; avoid over-fertilizing; 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 a healthy stem.
- Cut below a node.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite, peat moss, and sand; or a cactus/succulent potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth may take 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray 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 pruning of branches to shape the plant; remove crossing or crowded stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth; also prune to manage fruit production.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and fruiting.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone to ensure deep penetration; 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 perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to frost damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, and potential dehydration in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPhyllanthus acidus is generally considered non-toxic to cats. There are no known toxic compounds in the plant that would cause adverse effects in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPhyllanthus acidus is generally considered non-toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds in the plant that would cause adverse effects in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe unripe fruits of Phyllanthus acidus contain oxalic acid, which can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation and discomfort upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to mild irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Otaheite gooseberry tree easy to grow?
A: It has moderate care difficulty, requiring some attention to soil and water conditions.
Q: Are the berries of Phyllanthus acidus safe for pets?
A: Yes, the berries are non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the common uses of Otaheite gooseberry?
A: The tart berries are used in jams, jellies, and beverages, while the plant also serves ornamental purposes.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Phyllanthaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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