White Sapote
Casimiroa edulis
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Pl. 94FB — Casimiroa edulis
Casimiroa edulisCasimiroa edulisCasimiroa edulisCasimiroa edulisCasimiroa edulisCasimiroa edulisCasimiroa edulisCasimiroa edulisCasimiroa edulisCasimiroa edulisCasimiroa edulisCasimiroa edulisCasimiroa edulisCasimiroa edulis
IOverview
Overview
White Sapote, scientifically known as Casimiroa edulis, is a tree native to the Central American and southern Mexican regions including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and various parts of Mexico. This deciduous tree thrives in full sun and moist conditions, with light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil types. It can grow up to 16 meters tall and is known for its edible fruit, which makes it a popular choice among gardeners and food enthusiasts alike. One distinctive feature of the White Sapote tree is its ability to produce fruit within just a few years after planting, making it a fast-growing ornamental and edible addition to gardens in suitable climates.
Quick answers
What is White Sapote?
White Sapote, scientifically known as Casimiroa edulis, is a tree native to the Central American and southern Mexican regions including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and various parts of Mexico.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
White Sapote thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 8-11, making it suitable for warmer climates. The tree grows to a height of about 16 meters and produces edible fruit and seeds. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but avoid waterlogging by ensuring proper drainage.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-11
Mature size
16.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow White Sapote for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, sunny spot and basic care for your White Sapote.
- 1
What you'll need
A young sapling or seedling, well-draining soil, and a large pot if planting in containers.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the last frost has passed and temperatures are warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use light, loamy soil with good drainage. Ensure pots have adequate holes for water to escape.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant a young sapling into the prepared pot or garden bed, ensuring it is planted at the same depth as in its container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in partial shade for a few days to acclimate.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun once established, water when the top inch of soil is dry, and fertilize lightly during growing season.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune young trees to shape them. Harvest fruit in late summer to early fall when it turns white and softens.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, not providing enough sunlight, and neglecting pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSeed
Edible uses: The white sapote fruit is commonly eaten raw, offering a sweet and creamy texture reminiscent of vanilla or custard. Occasionally, the seeds are roasted and ground into a powder for use in beverages or desserts, adding a unique flavor to dishes.
Other uses:LumberPest control
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
11 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
11 native · 1 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 11 native· 1 introduced
Americas5 regions
native (5)Costa RicaEl SalvadorGuatemalaHondurasNicaragua
Broader regions
native:Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, Mexico Southeast, Mexico Southwest
introduced:Trinidad-Tobago
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 94fb134f-0a99-47c8-a8f5-549d8cfa6e35
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