Mangrove Apple
xylocarpus granatum
Also known as: ["Giant Mangrove","Mangrove Citrus"]
Overview
A mangrove species native to coastal regions, known for its woody, apple-like fruits and salt-tolerant nature.
Benefits & Perks
["disease resistant","cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Sapindales |
| Family: | Meliaceae |
| Genus: | Xylocarpus |
| Botanical Name: | Xylocarpus granatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: coastal mangrove ecosystems, brackish water areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"20–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix amended with compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in intense heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from direct midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
rarely required, only during prolonged dry periods
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
salty, waterlogged, sandy or muddy soils
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use a mix that doesn’t retain excess moisture; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures (20–30°C); prefers stable conditions, avoiding extremes.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
not necessary in natural habitats, occasional slow-release fertilizer in cultivation
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilization.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%); warm temperatures (24–28°C); indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also use water propagation for cuttings.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of stems; pinch back tips to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or diseased growth; shape the plant to encourage bushier growth; maintain air circulation.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune during dormancy or after flowering; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (2–5 cm wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; 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
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; 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, ensuring even saturation; water early in the morning to minimize 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 perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or drop; stunted growth; bud or flower loss.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or dieback; increases susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide insulation (e.g., mulch); avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced flowering; potential dehydration.
Solution: Increase humidity; provide shade during peak heat; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; rinse between feedings.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may suffer mild gastrointestinal issues if they consume the seeds or fruits of Xylocarpus granatum. The toxicity level is low, but ingestion should be avoided to prevent discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest the seeds or fruits of Xylocarpus granatum. The toxicity is generally low, but caution is advised due to potential digestive irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicXylocarpus granatum, commonly known as mangrove apple, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The seeds and fruits are the primary toxic parts, though the effects are generally not severe unless consumed in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Xylocarpus granatum suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is a large mangrove tree requiring coastal or brackish water conditions.
Q: Does the plant produce edible fruits?
A: The fruits are woody and not typically consumed by humans.
Q: How does this plant adapt to saline environments?
A: It possesses specialized root structures and salt-excreting leaves to thrive in coastal habitats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Meliaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | rarely required, only during p |
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