Asam Gelugor
garcinia atroviridis
Also known as: ["Malabar Tamarind","Thai Mangosteen"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia, known for its tart, edible fruits used in cooking.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Clusiaceae |
| Genus: | Garcinia |
| Botanical Name: | Garcinia atroviridis Griff. ex T. Anders. |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: sheltered garden or indoor pot with bright, indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- 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: 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:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to partial shade during intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to direct sunlight to avoid leaf burn; place in filtered light outdoors; protect from harsh midday sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 14–21 days in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, rich in organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warm, stable conditions.
Protect from drafts, maintain stable temperatures, avoid sudden fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust frequency based on growth rate.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with at least two nodes; air layering is also effective for mature plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, 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 (75–85°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or coarse sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several 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 of branches, heading back to encourage branching, and removal of crossing stems.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead or diseased growth, and encourage bushier development.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/diseased parts, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
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; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots if necessary, use fresh soil, 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 directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to reduce 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 organic matter for fertility; ensure proper aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or bud drop in response to extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate roots with mulch, and avoid watering until temperatures rise.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow due to excessive heat and dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to fall); avoid winter fertilization.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGarcinia atroviridis is not known to be toxic to cats when ingested in small quantities. The fruit is not typically associated with adverse effects in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicGarcinia atroviridis is not known to be toxic to dogs when ingested in small quantities. The fruit is not typically associated with adverse effects in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicGarcinia atroviridis is generally considered non-toxic to humans when consumed in moderation. The fruit is commonly used in culinary applications and traditional medicine.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Garcinia atroviridis the same as Garcinia cambogia?
A: No, they are different species, though both belong to the Garcinia genus.
Q: Can the fruits be eaten raw?
A: Yes, the fruits are edible and often used in cooking for their tart flavor.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade in tropical climates.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Clusiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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