Nance
byrsonima crassifolia
Also known as: ["Chutle","Cocolo","Llucay"]
Overview
A small tropical tree native to Central and South America, known for its edible yellow fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Malpighiaceae |
| Genus: | Byrsonima |
| Botanical Name: | Byrsonima crassifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm, sunny areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°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 with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix works well.
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:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in intense heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun if moved from shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.
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 2–3 weeks in dormancy
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); prefers stable conditions, avoiding frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth.
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 organic options like compost tea.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply 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), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to shape the plant and improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider) than the current one.
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; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; remove old soil; check root health; use fresh potting mix.
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 deeply once 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 compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or scorched leaves in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; risk of frost damage below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dryness.
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; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicByrsonima crassifolia is not considered toxic to cats. The fruits, leaves, and stems of the plant are generally safe for feline consumption, though excessive ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicByrsonima crassifolia is not considered toxic to dogs. The fruits, leaves, and stems of the plant are generally safe for canine consumption, though excessive ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicByrsonima crassifolia is generally considered safe for consumption, particularly its fruits, which are commonly eaten. However, the leaves and stems may contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in large amounts. The plant does not typically pose a significant health risk to humans.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Nance fruit edible?
A: Yes, the Nance fruit is edible and commonly used in culinary dishes.
Q: Does Byrsonima crassifolia attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and fruits.
Q: Is this plant drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, Byrsonima crassifolia is known for its drought tolerance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malpighiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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