Yellow Mombin
Spondias mombin
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Description
Yellow Mombin is a tropical deciduous tree native to the rainforests of Central and South America. It can reach heights of up to 20 meters and features a broad, spreading crown. In agroecology, it serves as a pioneer species, improving soil structure and fertility through its leaf litter and root systems. Yellow Mombin is particularly valued for its role in providing shade and habitat for wildlife, as well as its ability to thrive in diverse soil types. It is often integrated into food forests as a mid-canopy layer, supporting biodiversity. Historically, it has been used by indigenous communities for both its nutritional and medicinal properties. Guild companions include nitrogen-fixing plants like pigeon pea and ground covers such as sweet potato to enhance soil health and prevent erosion.
Growing Details
Yellow Mombin thrives in well-drained soils with a preference for full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Soil preparation should include organic matter to enhance fertility. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as lemongrass can deter pests, while pigeon pea can improve soil nitrogen levels. Avoid overwatering, especially in poorly drained soils. Harvest fruit when fully ripe for optimal flavor, and store in a cool, dry place. Propagation is
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Fire Wood
Building Wood
Windbreak
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Spondias mombin</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to tropical regions of the Americas
applicable geo region: Tropical Americas
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of March for 30 days
Harvest:
middle
of Jun for 60 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(4/5)
edible uses: The fruit of Yellow Mombin is consumed fresh or processed into beverages, jams, and desserts. Its tart flavor is rich in vitamin C, making it a popular choice for refreshing drinks. The fruit is typically harvested when fully ripe, and can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to a week.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, the bark and leaves of Yellow Mombin have been used in decoctions and infusions to treat digestive issues, skin conditions, and as an anti-inflammatory agent. The fruit is also known for its high vitamin C content, which supports immune health. Caution is advised as excessive consumption may lead to digestive discomfort.
health concerns: Excessive consumption of the fruit may cause digestive discomfort.
other uses: The wood of Yellow Mombin is durable and used for construction and as firewood. In agroforestry systems, it serves as a windbreak and provides valuable shade for understory crops.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Spondias mombin</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Spondias mombin
common names: Hog Plum; Jocote; Ciruela Amarilla
family: Anacardiaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Spondias
Growing Conditions
area needed: 10.0 m
spacing: 5.0 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 28ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity: Medium
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: High
hardness:
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(10/10)
first harvest: 3 years
life span: 50 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Fast
max height: 20.0 m
max width: 15.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Yellow Mombin thrives in well-drained soils with a preference for full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Soil preparation should include organic matter to enhance fertility. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as lemongrass can deter pests, while pigeon pea can improve soil nitrogen levels. Avoid overwatering, especially in poorly drained soils. Harvest fruit when fully ripe for optimal flavor, and store in a cool, dry place. Propagation is
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include fruit flies and scale insects. Introduce beneficial insects like parasitic wasps to control fruit fly populations. Planting marigolds nearby can help repel nematodes. Neem oil and garlic sprays are effective organic treatments for scale insects.
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