Chicle Sapodilla

manilkara dissecta

Also known as: ["Chicle Sapodilla"]

Family: Sapotaceae Genus: Manilkara Category: Trees

Overview

A tropical tree species native to Central America, known for its latex production and potential use in chewing gum.

Benefits & Perks

["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Ericales
Family: Sapotaceae
Genus: Manilkara
Botanical Name: Manilkara dissecta

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm climates, or indoor pot in bright, sunny area
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • 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 potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major shaping in late winter or early spring before new growth.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for health or shape.
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 indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth often indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, 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 some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; 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.

Use a thermometer to monitor; group plants for microclimate benefits; avoid placing near drafty windows or vents.

Fertilizing

every 2 months during growing season, none in winter

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or air layering; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Select a healthy stem.
  2. Cut below a node.
  3. Apply rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), and 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 4–8 weeks; new growth typically appears after 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag or propagator, misting bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Use clean cuts just above a node or branch junction; remove crossing or inward-growing branches.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune selectively; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.

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; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil mix.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water the root zone directly, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target the root zone precisely.
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 like compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth; buds may fail to open in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Slows metabolic processes, leading to wilting, leaf discoloration, and potential frost damage.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a heat source if needed; avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature drops.

Hot Stress

Causes leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration; may lead to premature leaf drop.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Manilkara dissecta may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as mealybugs, which disrupt nutrient uptake and photosynthesis.

Wilting in Manilkara dissecta can be caused by water stress, either due to overwatering leading to root rot or underwatering causing dehydration, both of which impair the plant's ability to transport water.

Leaf spots on Manilkara dissecta may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop if the infection is severe.

Rotting, particularly root rot, in Manilkara dissecta is often a result of overwatering or poor drainage, leading to fungal infections that decompose root tissues and impair water and nutrient absorption.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats that consume Manilkara dissecta seeds or bark may experience mild gastrointestinal issues. The plant's toxic components can irritate the feline digestive tract.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary care if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Ingestion of Manilkara dissecta seeds or bark by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds may cause irritation to the dog's digestive system.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep plants out of reach of dogs. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Manilkara dissecta contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and discomfort when ingested. The seeds and bark are the primary toxic parts, containing substances that may irritate the digestive tract.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea stomach pain diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consumption of seeds and bark. Keep away from children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Manilkara dissecta toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.

Q: What are the uses of Manilkara dissecta?

A: It is primarily known for its latex, which was historically used in chewing gum production.

Q: How difficult is it to care for Manilkara dissecta?

A: It requires moderate care, suitable for enthusiasts or those with some gardening experience.

Quick Reference
Family: Sapotaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

unknown
View
Blood Star Apple
View
unknown
View
Huber's Pradosia
View