Imbe
garcinia livingstonei
Also known as: ["African mangosteen","wild mangosteen"]
Overview
A small to medium-sized evergreen tree native to tropical Africa, known for its edible yellow fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Clusiaceae |
| Genus: | Garcinia |
| Botanical Name: | Garcinia livingstonei |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered outdoor location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°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 mix such as a combination of peat moss, perlite, and loam.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to maintain shape and health.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to shape the plant and remove unwanted growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate some direct morning sun but should be protected from intense afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to direct sunlight if moving from indoors; protect from scorching by providing shade during peak sun hours; adjust placement based on indoor vs. outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid placing near west-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and environmental conditions.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5–6.5.
Use a well-draining mix; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C). Can tolerate brief drops to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warm, stable conditions.
Protect from drafts; maintain stable temperatures; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; match fertilizer to plant's growth stage.
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 just below a node.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand, or a cactus/succulent mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth may take 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation medium, plastic bag or dome for humidity, heat mat (optional).
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; maintain high humidity; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools to make cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction. Remove crossing or crowded branches to improve structure.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased branches. Pruning also helps improve air circulation and light penetration.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy or active growth; remove dead/diseased wood; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter about 2–3 inches wider.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Repotting refreshes the soil and provides more space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture distribution. Avoid wetting the foliage to prevent fungal diseases. Water in the morning to allow leaves to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during spring and summer, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in fall and winter to prevent root rot, only watering when the soil is dry to the touch.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud drop can indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause leaf drop, root damage, and slow growth.
Solution: Move the plant to a warmer location; provide a heat source if necessary; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat above 90°F (32°C) can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; ensure adequate watering to prevent dehydration.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicGarcinia livingstonei fruits are slightly toxic to cats when ingested. The high fiber and acidity can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe fruits of Garcinia livingstonei can be slightly toxic to dogs if ingested in significant amounts. The high fiber and acidity may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicGarcinia livingstonei, commonly known as the Imbe, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, excessive consumption of its fruits may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to their high fiber content and acidity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Garcinia livingstonei suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: It is not typically recommended for indoor cultivation due to its size and light requirements.
Q: What are the uses of Imbe fruits?
A: The fruits are edible and can be eaten fresh or used in jams and preserves.
Q: How often should Garcinia livingstonei be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings, especially during the growing season.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Clusiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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