Red Mombin
Spondias purpurea
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Description
Red Mombin, or Spondias purpurea, is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree native to tropical regions of the Americas. It plays a significant role in agroecology and regenerative agriculture as a pioneer species that can improve soil fertility and structure. The tree is particularly valued for its ability to thrive in poor soils, making it ideal for reforestation and ecosystem restoration projects. In food forests, Red Mombin serves as a mid-story layer, providing shade and habitat for wildlife. It is often planted alongside nitrogen-fixing species like Gliricidia sepium to enhance soil health. Historically, the fruits have been a staple in local diets, consumed fresh or processed into traditional beverages and preserves.
Growing Details
Red Mombin thrives in well-drained soils with full sun exposure. It benefits from organic mulching to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Companion planting with nitrogen-fixing species like Gliricidia sepium can enhance soil fertility. Avoid waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot. Harvest fruits when they are fully ripe for the best flavor. Store in a cool, dry place for up to a week.
Tags
Hedge
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Fire Wood
Windbreak
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Spondias purpurea</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:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(4/5)
edible uses: The fruits of Red Mombin are eaten fresh or processed into juices, jams, and desserts. They are rich in vitamin C and have a sweet-tart flavor. The fruit is typically harvested when fully ripe, and can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to a week. It is also used in traditional dishes and beverages in Central American cuisine.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, the leaves and bark of the Red Mombin tree are used in folk medicine to treat digestive issues, skin conditions, and as an anti-inflammatory agent. The leaves can be made into a poultice for topical application, while bark infusions are consumed for internal ailments. Caution is advised as excessive consumption may lead to digestive discomfort.
health concerns: Excessive consumption of the fruit may lead to digestive discomfort due to its high acidity.
other uses: The wood of Red Mombin is used for fuel and occasionally for construction purposes. The tree also serves as a living fence and provides shade in agroforestry systems. Its dense foliage makes it an effective windbreak and erosion control plant.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Spondias purpurea
common names: Hog Plum; Jocote; Ciruela Roja
family: Anacardiaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Spondias
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.0 m
spacing: 5.0 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
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: 15.0 m
max width: 10.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Red Mombin thrives in well-drained soils with full sun exposure. It benefits from organic mulching to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Companion planting with nitrogen-fixing species like Gliricidia sepium can enhance soil fertility. Avoid waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot. Harvest fruits when they are fully ripe for the best flavor. Store in a cool, dry place for up to a week.
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include fruit flies and scale insects. Introduce beneficial insects such as parasitic wasps to control fruit fly populations. Neem oil and garlic sprays can be used to manage scale insects. Planting marigolds nearby can help repel nematodes.
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