South American Sapote
Quararibea cordatafam. Bignoniaceae
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Pl. 2264 — Quararibea cordata
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IOverview
Overview
South American Sapote, scientifically known as Quararibea cordata and belonging to the Bignoniaceae family, is a tree native to regions including Bolivia, Brazil North, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama, and Peru. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers moist, medium to heavy (clay) soil. It can grow up to 20 meters tall and is notable for its edible fruit. The South American Sapote adds a distinctive element to the landscape with its large size and light-loving nature, making it a valuable addition to gardens or orchards in suitable climates.
Quick answers
What is South American Sapote?
South American Sapote, scientifically known as Quararibea cordata and belonging to the Bignoniaceae family, is a tree native to regions including Bolivia, Brazil North, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama, and Peru. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers moist, medium to heavy (clay) soil.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
South American Sapote thrives in full sun and requires moist, medium to heavy clay soil. It is hardy in zones 10-12, so it needs protection from frost. For propagation, use seeds or grafting. Regular watering is essential for fruit production, but ensure the soil does not become waterlogged. This tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and produces edible fruit.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
20.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow South American Sapote for the first time
7steps
Start with a simple planting process to grow South American Sapote as a beginner.
- 1
What you'll need
A young sapling, well-draining soil, and a large pot or garden space.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the last frost has passed.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a mix of medium and heavy clay soils with good drainage. Ensure containers are at least 1 meter wide.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young saplings into the prepared soil, ensuring they have enough space to grow.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in a sunny spot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure and regular watering, especially during dry periods. Fertilize with organic compost once a year.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches. Harvest fruit when it softens naturally.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: Drink
Other uses:ContainersHouseplantPioneerLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
7 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
7 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 7 native
Americas5 regions
native (5)BoliviaColombiaCosta RicaEcuadorPeru
Broader regions
native:Brazil North, Panamá
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
2 related
See also
2 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Bignoniaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Bignoniaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 2264a469-dc4e-42f2-8aa6-31094c268fef
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