Spanish Cherry
Mimusops elengi
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Pl. 1816 — Mimusops elengi
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IOverview
Overview
Spanish Cherry, scientifically known as Mimusops elengi, is a deciduous tree native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, including regions like Assam, India, and various islands such as Java and Sumatra. This versatile plant thrives in moist conditions with light requirements ranging from full sun to partial shade. It can grow up to 15 meters tall and is known for its edible fruit, making it a valuable resource in many areas of its native range. Its adaptability to different soil types—ranging from light sandy to heavy clay—and hardiness zones 10-12 further contribute to its widespread presence across diverse habitats.
Quick answers
What is Spanish Cherry?
Spanish Cherry, scientifically known as Mimusops elengi, is a deciduous tree native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, including regions like Assam, India, and various islands such as Java and Sumatra.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Spanish Cherry thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It can grow up to 15 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions with a range of 10-12. The fruit is edible, making this plant suitable for gardens where space allows. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist for best growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
15.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Spanish Cherry for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple Spanish Cherry tree to get familiar with its care.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Spanish Cherry sapling, well-draining soil, and a container or garden space.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather is warming up, avoiding extreme heat or cold.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay soil with good drainage. Ensure containers have adequate holes for water to escape.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling carefully, ensuring not to damage the roots. Water thoroughly after planting.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Place in a partially shaded area to avoid direct sunlight.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilize lightly once a year with organic compost. Prune to shape and remove dead branches as needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the tree in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and maintain its shape. Harvest fruit when they turn bright red, but avoid eating raw due to potential toxicity.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, not providing enough support for tall trees, using chemical fertilizers, and ignoring pruning needs.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:CraftingDyeEssential OilFire starterLumberPest controlLightingoilPaintSoaptextilesTanninTeethFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
21 native · 9 introduced
Distribution
21 native · 9 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 21 native· 9 introduced
Asia7 regions
native (5)BangladeshIndiaPhilippinesSri LankaThailand
introduced (2)CambodiaVietnam
Americas2 regions
introduced (2)CubaUnited States
Oceania2 regions
native (2)New CaledoniaVanuatu
Broader regions
native:Lesser Sunda Is., Borneo, East Himalaya, Jawa, Malaya, Maluku, New Guinea, Northern Territory, Queensland, Sulawesi, Sumatera, Western Australia, Andaman Is.
introduced:Réunion, Trinidad-Tobago, Windward Is., Florida, Leeward Is.
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
- Last updated
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 1816cf02-3f7b-4cda-8e07-f8b857cab6d8
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