Yunnan Mammea

mammea yunnanensis

Also known as: ["Yunnan Mammea"]

Family: Calophyllaceae Genus: Mammea Category: Trees

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:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • 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.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves with root rot; stunted growth due to poor drainage; leaf drop from waterlogged soil.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

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
  1. Select healthy stem.
  2. Cut below a node.
  3. Apply rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. 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.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
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

Yellow leaves in Mammea yunnanensis may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Mammea yunnanensis can be caused by water stress, either due to under or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Mammea yunnanensis may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Mammea yunnanensis is often associated with excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats 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:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors seizures difficulty breathing
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds fruits
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure cats cannot access the plant. Immediate veterinary care is essential if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Toxic

Ingestion 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:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite tremors seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds fruits
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Mammea 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:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain dizziness respiratory distress
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds fruits
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep all parts of the plant away from children and avoid ingestion. Seek immediate medical attention if accidental consumption occurs.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

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
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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