Mammee Apple is a tropical evergreen tree native to the Caribbean and northern South America. It plays a significant role in agroecology and regenerative agriculture as an upper canopy layer in food forests. The tree provides essential ecosystem services such as shade, habitat for wildlife, and organic matter through leaf litter. Its deep root system aids in soil stabilization and nutrient cycling, making it a valuable component in natural farming systems. Historically, it has been used by indigenous communities for its edible fruit and medicinal properties. The fruit is highly nutritious, rich in vitamins A and C, and can be consumed fresh or processed into jams and beverages. Mammee Apple is often planted alongside nitrogen-fixing species like Inga edulis to enhance soil fertility.
Growing Details
Mammee Apple thrives in well-drained, loamy soils with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic compost and mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion planting with species like pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) can improve soil fertility. Avoid waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot. Harvest the fruit when it is fully ripe, typically when it begins to soften slightly. Store harvested fruits in a cool, dry place to extend shelf life.
Edible Parts
Fruit
Tags
Carbon Farming Attracts Wildlife Fire Wood Building Wood Scented Plant Windbreak Erosion Preventing Bee Friendly Visual Appeal
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Mammea americana</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 the Caribbean and northern South Am
applicable geo region: Tropical regions
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 fruit of the Mammee Apple is edible and can be eaten fresh or used in making jams, jellies, and beverages. The pulp is sweet and aromatic, often compared to apricots. It is typically harvested when fully ripe to ensure the best flavor and nutritional content.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Mammee Apple has been used in traditional medicine for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. The seeds and leaves have been used to treat skin conditions and digestive issues. However, caution is advised as the seeds contain toxic compounds and should not be ingested.
health concerns: The seeds and bark contain toxic compounds and should not be consumed. Proper handling and preparation are necessary to avoid ingestion of these parts.
other uses: The wood of Mammee Apple is dense and durable, suitable for construction and making furniture. It is also used as firewood due to its high density.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Mammea americana
common names: Mammee Apple; South American Apricot; Mamey
family: Calophyllaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Mammea
Growing Conditions
area needed: 10.0 m
spacing: 8.0 m
growing difficulty: Medium
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: High
humidity: Medium
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: High
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(10/10)
first harvest: 5 years
life span: 100 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 25.0 m
max width: 15.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Mammee Apple thrives in well-drained, loamy soils with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic compost and mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion planting with species like pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) can improve soil fertility. Avoid waterlogging, as it can lead to root rot. Harvest the fruit when it is fully ripe, typically when it begins to soften slightly. Store harvested fruits in a cool, dry place to extend shelf life.
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include fruit flies and scale insects. Introduce beneficial insects such as parasitic wasps to control fruit fly populations. Planting marigolds nearby can help repel nematodes. Use neem oil as an organic spray to manage scale insects.
Growth Timeline
Recipes Using This Plant
Animals Interacting With This Plant
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