Jelly Plum
bunchosia armeniaca
Also known as: ["Jelly Plum","Marmelo"]
Overview
A small tree or shrub native to the Americas, known for its small, sweet, plum-like fruits that are used to make jelly.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Malpighiaceae |
| Genus: | Bunchosia |
| Botanical Name: | Bunchosia armeniaca |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor in frost-free areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°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 perlite or sand for aeration.
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:
Bright, indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; 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 intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for better light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); can tolerate brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warmer conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in 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 and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased branches.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; 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 at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or scorched leaves in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and increases susceptibility to root rot.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cooler temperatures.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; soil may dry out too quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicSimilar to dogs, unripe fruits of Bunchosia armeniaca can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in cats. The toxic compounds are not highly concentrated, but ingestion may lead to digestive discomfort. Ripe fruits are generally safe for cats in small quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe unripe fruits of Bunchosia armeniaca can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation in dogs. While not highly toxic, ingestion may lead to discomfort and digestive issues. Ripe fruits are typically safe for dogs in moderation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicBunchosia armeniaca, commonly known as the peanut butter fruit, contains small amounts of toxic compounds in its unripe fruits. Consumption can lead to mild gastrointestinal distress due to irritant properties. The ripe fruits are generally considered safe for consumption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Jelly Plum tree easy to grow?
A: It has moderate care difficulty, requiring specific conditions to thrive.
Q: Are the fruits of Bunchosia armeniaca edible?
A: Yes, the small, plum-like fruits are sweet and commonly used to make jelly.
Q: Does the Jelly Plum attract wildlife?
A: While not specifically documented, its fruits may attract birds and other wildlife.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malpighiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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