Spanish cherry, Medlar, Bullock's heart
mimusops elengi
Also known as: ["Bullet Wood","Tamil: முள்ளங்கி (Mul-lang-ki)"]
Overview
A medium-sized evergreen tree native to tropical regions of Asia, known for its fragrant flowers and edible fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Sapotaceae |
| Genus: | Mimusops |
| Botanical Name: | Mimusops elengi |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- 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":"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 potting mix with added organic matter; can use cactus or succulent mix.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to control size and shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to avoid leaf scorch; protect from direct midday sun; adjust light exposure based on indoor/outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh topsoil annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoids extremes.
Avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain stable temperatures; monitor for stress signs.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- 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), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also use cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of branches to shape the plant; avoid heavy cuts on main stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/diseased growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water the root zone directly, 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 perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with coarse materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf drop or damage.
Solution: Protect from drafts; move to a warmer location; use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
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-toxicMimusops elengi is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant has not been associated with any adverse effects in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicThere are no documented cases of toxicity in dogs from exposure to Mimusops elengi. The plant is not known to cause adverse effects in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicMimusops elengi is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant has been used traditionally for its medicinal properties, particularly for dental and skin health, without reported toxicity.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Mimusops elengi suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is best suited for outdoor cultivation due to its size and growth requirements.
Q: What are the uses of Mimusops elengi?
A: It is valued for its fragrant flowers, edible fruits, and timber, as well as traditional medicinal uses.
Q: How often should Mimusops elengi be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings, especially during the growing season.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Sapotaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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