Jaboticaba
crescentia alata
Also known as: ["West Indian lignum-vitae","Maya nut"]
Overview
A tropical tree native to Central and South America, known for its hard wood and edible fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Bignoniaceae |
| Genus: | Crescentia |
| Botanical Name: | Crescentia aluta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm climates, or large indoor pot in cooler regions
- 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 mix of cactus soil, perlite, and a small amount of compost.
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/day); tolerates partial shade but may reduce flowering.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on outdoor/indoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F/18–29°C); prefers stable conditions; sensitive to frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; avoid fertilizing dry soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F/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 and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth may take 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to maintain structure and promote airflow.
Pruning Plan
Prune to shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased branches.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; use fresh well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and flowering.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; 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 directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; 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 organic matter for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky components.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, stunted growth, or chlorosis in cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a space heater or frost cloth; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute properly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCrescentia alata is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in felines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not considered toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCrescentia alata is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not considered toxic
Humans
Non-toxicCrescentia alata is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal circumstances. The plant is not documented to cause adverse physiological effects when ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not considered toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Crescentia alata suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is a large tree and best suited for outdoor cultivation.
Q: Are the fruits of Crescentia alata edible?
A: Yes, the fruits are edible and often used in traditional medicine.
Q: How often should Crescentia alata be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Bignoniaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
