Governor's Plum, Indian Plum, Ramphal
flacourtia indica
Also known as: ["Governor's Plum","Indian Plum","Ramphal","Scotch Pride"]
Overview
A small to medium-sized deciduous tree native to tropical regions, known for its edible fruits and ornamental value.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Genus: | Flacourtia |
| Botanical Name: | Flacourtia indica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required unless in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the year.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed for rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates some shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid leaf burn; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay without amendments; maintain consistent moisture without saturation.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); prefers stable conditions; may tolerate brief dips to 50°F (10°C).
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth
Fertilize lightly during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- 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 (70–80°F or 21–27°C), humid (70–80%), and bright but indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also use pure sand or coco coir.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth typically appears after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to encourage branching; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood; also prune to manage size and improve air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood first; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for young plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
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 saturation; water early in the morning to reduce 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 compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or wilting in extreme cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop; prolonged cold can damage roots and lead to dieback.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in cold climates; avoid overwatering during cold spells.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow; fruit production can be reduced.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; follow dilution instructions; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are also susceptible to the cyanogenic glycosides present in Flacourtia indica fruits. While toxicity is unlikely with small amounts, large consumption may cause mild gastrointestinal disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicSimilar to humans, the fruits of Flacourtia indica contain cyanogenic glycosides. Dogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume large amounts of the fruit.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicFlacourtia indica fruits contain small amounts of cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when metabolized. Ingestion of large quantities may lead to mild gastrointestinal distress and potential systemic effects due to cyanide accumulation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Flacourtia indica suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is best suited for outdoor cultivation due to its size and growth habits.
Q: What are the common uses of Flacourtia indica?
A: The fruits are edible and can be eaten fresh or used in jams and preserves; the tree is also valued for its ornamental foliage.
Q: How often should Flacourtia indica be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings; adjust frequency based on climate and soil conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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