Imbu
Spondias tuberosafam. Anacardiaceae
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Pl. 559F — Spondias tuberosa
Spondias tuberosaSpondias tuberosaSpondias tuberosaSpondias tuberosaSpondias tuberosaSpondias tuberosaSpondias tuberosaSpondias tuberosaSpondias tuberosaSpondias tuberosaSpondias tuberosaSpondias tuberosaSpondias tuberosaSpondias tuberosa
IOverview
Overview
Imbu, scientifically known as Spondias tuberosa, is a small to medium-sized tree native to the northeastern and southeastern regions of Brazil. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). Known for its edible fruit, imbu has been an important part of local cuisine and culture. One distinctive feature is its ability to grow up to 6 meters in height, while another notable characteristic is its hardiness range from zones 10-12, indicating it can withstand mild freezes.
Quick answers
What is Imbu?
Imbu, scientifically known as Spondias tuberosa, is a small to medium-sized tree native to the northeastern and southeastern regions of Brazil. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Imbu thrives in full sun and is adaptable to various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). It prefers dry to moist conditions and grows best in hardiness zones 10-12. The tree can reach a height of 6 meters and produces edible fruit. Ensure the soil remains well-drained while maintaining adequate moisture for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
6.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Imbu for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, sunny spot and basic care for your Imbu tree.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Imbu sapling or seeds, a pot if container planting, and some basic gardening tools.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather is warming up after the coldest months.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young saplings carefully to avoid damaging roots. For seeds, sow them directly in the ground after stratification if needed.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged during this critical period. Provide partial shade and protect from strong winds.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially when young. Fertilize lightly in spring and summer with a balanced organic fertilizer. Prune to shape the tree as needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune during dormant season to maintain shape and remove dead branches. Harvest fruit when they turn yellow and are soft to touch.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy shade, not providing enough support for the tree as it grows, using chemical fertilizers, and neglecting pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: Drink
Other uses:ContainerstextilesLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 2 native
Broader regions
native:Brazil Northeast, Brazil Southeast
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Anacardiaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Anacardiaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 559fc8da-15c3-4a4e-a6f0-fe78885666ac
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