Yunnan Mammea
mammea yunnanensis
Also known as: ["Yunnan Mammea"]
Overview
A tropical tree species native to Yunnan, China, with potential ornamental and ecological value.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Calophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Mammea |
| Botanical Name: | Mammea yunnanensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- 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":"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 organic matter; cactus or succulent mix can work well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning as needed; major pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; can handle light to moderate shaping without harming the plant.
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 sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix that doesn’t compact; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warm, stable conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain stable warmth for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
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 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 (70–90%); warm temperatures (75–85°F or 24–29°C); indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also use sphagnum moss for air layering.
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 if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant; remove dead or diseased growth; encourage bushier growth; maintain size.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
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 soil health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; 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 until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress); leaf drop or wilting (heat stress); stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop; roots become susceptible to rot in cold, wet soil.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced vigor; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; 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
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly susceptible to the toxic effects of Mammea yunnanensis. Ingestion of seeds or fruits can result in severe poisoning, with potential for organ damage and neurological effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Mammea yunnanensis seeds or fruits by dogs can lead to significant toxicity, affecting the gastrointestinal and nervous systems. The toxic compounds can cause severe distress and require prompt veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicMammea yunnanensis contains toxic compounds that can cause severe physiological effects upon ingestion. The seeds and fruits are particularly dangerous, containing substances that may interfere with normal cellular functions and lead to systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Mammea yunnanensis commonly cultivated?
A: No, it is not widely cultivated and is more of a rare species.
Q: What are the typical growing conditions for this plant?
A: It thrives in tropical climates with well-drained soil and partial shade.
Q: Does it produce flowers or fruits?
A: It is known to produce flowers and fruits, though specifics are limited due to its rarity.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Calophyllaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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