Miracle Fruit
thaumatococcus daniellii
Also known as: ["Miracle Berry","Thaumatococcus daniellii"]
Overview
A tropical plant native to West Africa, known for its fruit that temporarily alters the perception of taste, making sour foods taste sweet.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","medicinal use","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Zingiberales |
| Family: | Marantaceae |
| Genus: | Thaumatococcus |
| Botanical Name: | Thaumatococcus daniellii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a humid, tropical setting
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added organic matter like compost or peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
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 midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to dappled light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
rich, well-draining, organic soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C). Tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes cold drafts.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from cold drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings or divide rhizomes.
- Apply rooting hormone if using cuttings.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
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 with perlite or sand for cuttings; moist soil for rhizome division.
Hormone
Rooting hormone can be used but is not strictly necessary for rhizome division.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks for cuttings; rhizome divisions establish more quickly if healthy.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Keep cuttings humid; use clean tools to prevent disease; ensure rhizomes have buds for new growth.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of stems and foliage; avoid cutting into old wood unless necessary.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged foliage.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; disinfect tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; discard excess water.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution to the root zone. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent standing water.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, reducing frequency in winter to prevent root rot. Increase watering during active growth and fruiting periods.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; ensure proper aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or leaf drop in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf drop.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, or reduced fruit production.
Solution: Increase humidity; provide shade during peak heat; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; flush 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 in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicThe fruit pulp of Thaumatococcus daniellii is generally non-toxic to cats and may be consumed in small amounts without causing harm. The seeds should be avoided as they may lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation if ingested in significant quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicThe fruit pulp of Thaumatococcus daniellii is non-toxic to dogs and may be consumed in moderation without adverse effects. The seeds, however, should be avoided due to their potential to cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThaumatococcus daniellii, commonly known as miracle fruit, contains the sweet protein thaumatin in its seeds. While the fruit pulp is edible and sweet, ingestion of the seeds in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to their fibrous nature and potential irritant compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the fruit of Thaumatococcus daniellii safe for consumption?
A: Yes, the fruit is non-toxic and is known for its unique taste-altering properties.
Q: How should I care for Thaumatococcus daniellii indoors?
A: Provide bright, indirect light, maintain high humidity, and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Does Thaumatococcus daniellii require special soil?
A: It thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic pH, similar to its native tropical environment.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Marantaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to dappled light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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