Otaheite apple
spondias dulcis
Also known as: ["Yellow mombin","Ambarella"]
Overview
A tropical fruit tree native to Southeast Asia, known for its edible, yellowish-green fruit with a crunchy texture and sweet-tart flavor.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","tropical appeal","fast growing"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus: | Spondias |
| Botanical Name: | Spondias dulcis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions, protected from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if indoor humidity is consistently below 40%
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning after harvest.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may reduce fruiting.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to direct sun gradually; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure outdoor placement receives unobstructed sunlight.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
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 between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds in heavy soils; avoid compacted soil; test pH annually.
Temperature
Thrives in warm tropical conditions (65–85°F / 18–29°C); prefers stable temperatures year-round.
Protect from frost; maintain humidity in dry heat; avoid placing near drafty windows.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize every 6–8 weeks during growing season; water before applying; avoid contact with roots.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering; seeds are viable but slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below node, apply hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (75–85°F / 24–29°C), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
4–8 weeks for roots to develop; 6–12 months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open canopy; heading cuts to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead/diseased branches; shape for airflow; encourage fruiting wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw for larger branches.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, remove dead wood, shape canopy, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil mix, ensure drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; essential for young plants.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, trim roots, add fresh soil, water lightly, place in shade temporarily.
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, 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.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud abortion in extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt, turn yellow, or drop; growth halts; prolonged cold can damage branches.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use frost cloth for protection; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced fruit set, or leaf drop due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute if liquid, apply evenly, water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10) in spring and summer; reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSpondias dulcis is not considered toxic to cats. The plant, including its ripe fruits, leaves, and stems, does not contain known substances harmful to felines. However, ingestion of large quantities of any plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the fiber content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSpondias dulcis is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant, including its ripe fruits, leaves, and stems, does not contain known substances harmful to canines. However, ingestion of large quantities of any plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the fiber content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSpondias dulcis, commonly known as the ambarella or golden apple, is generally safe for consumption when ripe. However, unripe fruits contain higher levels of oxalic acid, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and irritation. The oxalic acid binds with calcium in the body, potentially leading to the formation of kidney stones in susceptible individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Otaheite apple tree suitable for container gardening?
A: While possible, it is best suited for outdoor cultivation due to its size and growth habit.
Q: How long does it take for Spondias dulcis to bear fruit?
A: Typically, the tree begins fruiting within 3–5 years after planting.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for this plant?
A: It thrives in full sun, well-drained soil, and a tropical or subtropical climate.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Anacardiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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