Star Apple
garcinia intermedia
Also known as: ["Star Apple","Garcinia intermedia"]
Overview
A tropical tree species native to Central and South America, known for its round, purple-skinned fruit with a sweet, milky-white pulp.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Clusiaceae |
| Genus: | Garcinia |
| Botanical Name: | Garcinia intermedia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- 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 mix amended with compost 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 if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to avoid leaf burn; protect from direct afternoon sun; adjust light exposure based on indoor vs. outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam with organic matter
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Use a mix of peat, perlite, and compost; avoid heavy garden soil; check drainage before planting.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, stable conditions.
Protect from frost; maintain stable temperatures; avoid placing near drafty windows or heat sources.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season
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
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut just below a node.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- 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 peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–4 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
Selective thinning and heading back to maintain shape and promote airflow.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead or diseased growth, and encourage bushier growth; focus on maintaining a balanced structure.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased branches first; make clean cuts just above nodes; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; 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 for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water the root zone directly, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the day 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 coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, or wilting; slow growth or bud drop in extreme temperatures.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or leaf drop due to excessive heat and water loss.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; water before fertilizing; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to summer); reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGarcinia intermedia is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known toxic substances that would harm felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicGarcinia intermedia is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds in the plant that would pose a risk to canine health when ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicGarcinia intermedia is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant does not produce known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the fruit of Garcinia intermedia edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible and has a sweet, milky-white pulp.
Q: Does Garcinia intermedia require full sun?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full sun, but protection from intense afternoon sun is recommended.
Q: How often should I water Garcinia intermedia?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Clusiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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