Miracle Fruit
synsepalum dulcificum
Also known as: ["Miracle Berry","Miraculin Plant"]
Overview
A small evergreen shrub native to West Africa, known for its unique fruit that temporarily alters the taste of sour foods to sweet.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Sapotaceae |
| Genus: | Synsepalum |
| Botanical Name: | Synsepalum dulcificum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic mix like cactus soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to maintain shape and remove old wood.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
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 light, protect from intense sun to prevent scorching, adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with protection from intense afternoon sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
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, fertile, slightly acidic potting mix
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extremes.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during flowering/fruiting.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below node, apply hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, plastic wrap or dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches, cutting just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier form and better fruit production.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune dead/weak growth, shape plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes growth and prevents root-bound issues.
Checklist
Choose new pot, prepare soil mix, inspect roots, repot carefully, water lightly.
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, ensure even saturation, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, ensure aeration with chunky materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced fruit production in excessive heat above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before feeding, stop in dormant period.
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-toxicThe berries of Synsepalum dulcificum are not considered toxic to cats. The taste-altering properties may not affect cats in the same way as humans.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicThe berries of Synsepalum dulcificum are not considered toxic to dogs. However, the effect of taste alteration may not be desirable for pets.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicThe berries of Synsepalum dulcificum, commonly known as the miracle fruit, are not toxic to humans. They are known for their unique ability to temporarily alter the perception of taste, making sour foods taste sweet.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the Miracle Fruit work?
A: The fruit contains miraculin, a glycoprotein that binds to taste receptors and temporarily alters perception of sour flavors to sweet.
Q: Is the plant difficult to grow?
A: It requires specific conditions like acidic soil and warm temperatures, making it moderately challenging for beginners.
Q: Can I grow it indoors?
A: Yes, but it needs bright light, high humidity, and consistent warmth to thrive.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Sapotaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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