Dragon's Eye Fruit
garcinia cochinchinensis
Also known as: ["Cambodian Mangosteen","Vietnamese Mangosteen"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia, known for its edible fruit with a distinctive eye-like pattern.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","aesthetic foliage","tropical appeal"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Clusiaceae |
| Genus: | Garcinia |
| Botanical Name: | Garcinia cochinchinensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or protected outdoor area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–32°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to control size and shape.
- 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; adjust to partial shade during intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to avoid scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix with organic matter
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Use a mix of peat, perlite, and loam; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid extremes.
Monitor room temperature; avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; adjust care based on seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with at least two nodes; air layering is also effective for mature plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut 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 (70–80%), 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 typically form in 4–8 weeks; new growth may take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of long stems and deadwood; pinch tips for bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead/diseased parts.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/damaged parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
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 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 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 aeration with coarse materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a heat source if necessary; avoid drafts and cold windows.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; provide shade during peak heat; ensure adequate water supply.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
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
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicSimilar to dogs, cats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they consume the fruit of Garcinia cochinchinensis. The tannins present in the fruit can cause irritation to the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe fruit of Garcinia cochinchinensis may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs due to its tannin content. While not highly toxic, ingestion in large amounts could lead to discomfort or mild poisoning.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicGarcinia cochinchinensis is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, excessive consumption of its fruit may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its high tannin content. The fruit is often used in traditional medicine and as a food source in some regions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Garcinia cochinchinensis related to the mangosteen?
A: It is often called 'Cambodian Mangosteen' due to its similar appearance, but it is a distinct species.
Q: How do you care for Garcinia cochinchinensis?
A: It requires warm, humid conditions, well-drained soil, and partial shade to full sun.
Q: Is the fruit of Garcinia cochinchinensis edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible and has a sweet, tangy flavor, often used in traditional dishes.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Clusiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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