Origin
Planchonella australis, commonly known as the Australian canistel or yellow sapote, is a subtropical fruit tree native to the northeast coast of Australia.
Common Names
Planchonella australis is commonly known as the Australian canistel or yellow sapote. In Australia, it is also called eggfruit or lemonade fruit, due to its lemony taste.
Uses
Planchonella australis produces delicious yellow to orange fruits that resemble small mangoes. These fruits are often eaten fresh or used in desserts, jams, and other culinary applications. The fruit can also be used to make a refreshing drink or smoothie. In addition to its culinary uses, the tree's wood is used for construction, furniture making, and flooring. The tree itself is often grown as an ornamental due to its attractive foliage and small stature.
General Appearance
Planchonella australis is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree that typically grows up to 10m tall. The tree has a stout trunk and a dense, rounded, and symmetrical crown. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and oblong-shaped. The tree blooms in spring, producing small, fragrant flowers that are followed by round to oval-shaped fruits. The fruits are typically 5-8cm in diameter and have a smooth, thin skin that turns from green to yellow-orange when ripe. The flesh is yellow and custard-like with a sweet and tangy flavor.
Growth Conditions of Planchonella Australis
Planchonella Australis, commonly known as black apple or burdekin plum, is a species native to Australia. It is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 20 meters tall and 50 cm in diameter. Here are the typical growth conditions required for its proper growth and development:
Light Requirements
Planchonella Australis requires full sun to partial shade for optimum growth. It thrives in bright and sunny environments, but it can also tolerate a certain degree of shade. However, it is essential to ensure that the plant receives enough sunlight to produce healthy foliage and fruit.
Temperature Requirements
Planchonella Australis grows best in tropical and subtropical climates, with average temperatures ranging from 23 to 29°C. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of 2°C but cannot withstand frost. In places with cooler climates, this plant can grow in a greenhouse or indoors under artificial conditions.
Soil Requirements
Planchonella Australis is adaptable to different soil types but prefers well-drained loamy soils that are rich in organic matter. Soil pH can range from mildly acidic to neutral. However, the tree's growth may be stunted in soils that are too acidic or alkaline. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot.
Water Requirements
Planchonella Australis requires regular and consistent watering to maintain its growth and fruit production. This tree can tolerate short periods of drought, but extended water stress can cause wilting, leaf drop, and fruit abortion. Watering should be done deeply, allowing the soil to absorb enough moisture.
Fertilizer Requirements
To promote healthy growth, Planchonella Australis requires regular fertilization with balanced NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) fertilizers. In addition, it benefits from the application of organic matter such as compost or aged manure. Fertilization should be done during the growing season, and the amount and frequency should be determined by the soil quality and the plant's growth rate.
By providing the above growth conditions, Planchonella Australis can grow to its full potential and produce high-quality fruits.
Cultivation methods
Planchonella australis (also called black apple or burdekin plum) is a tropical evergreen tree that can grow up to 30 meters high. It is native to northeastern Australia, Papua New Guinea, and some Pacific Islands. This tree prefers a warm and humid climate and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. However, it needs good drainage and cannot tolerate waterlogged soils.
To cultivate Planchonella australis, it is best to start with a healthy nursery-grown tree. Plant it in a well-prepared hole that is twice as wide and deep as the root ball. Fill the hole with a mixture of compost, topsoil, and sand, and water well.
Watering needs
Planchonella australis needs regular watering, especially during the dry season. In general, it needs about 2-3 inches of water per week. However, be careful not to overwater it, as waterlogged soils can cause root rot and damage. The best way to water this tree is deeply and infrequently. Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering sessions.
Fertilization
Planchonella australis is a heavy feeder, meaning it needs a lot of nutrients to grow and produce fruit. To fertilize this tree, use a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. For best results, fertilize the tree before the growing season starts and again in midsummer. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.
Pruning
Planchonella australis does not require much pruning, but it is essential to remove any dead, diseased, or weak branches regularly. Also, prune any cross branches or those that are growing in the wrong direction. You can also prune the tree to shape and control its size or height. However, avoid over-pruning, as this can stunt the tree's growth and reduce fruit production.
Propagation of Planchonella Australis
Planchonella Australis or the Black Apple is a beautiful evergreen tree that is native to the subtropical regions of Australia. It is a popular choice for landscaping due to its attractive foliage and edible fruits. The plant can be propagated through various methods, including seed propagation, cutting propagation, and grafting.
Propagation through Seed
The Black Apple can be propagated using its seeds. Collect the seeds from the mature fruits in autumn and remove the pulp. Clean the seeds and soak them in water for around 24 hours. Prepare a seed-raising mix of equal parts of sand, peat moss, and perlite and fill the seed-raising trays with this mix. Sow the seeds at a depth of 1 cm and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Water it lightly and keep it in a warm and bright place. The seeds will take around 3 to 4 weeks to germinate.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is another method for the Black Apple tree. Take semi-hardwood cuttings from the tree during spring or summer. Make sure the cuttings are around 8-10 cm long and possess healthy growth. Remove the leaves from the lower part of the cutting and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a pot full of sandy soil and perlite mix. Water it well and place it in a bright, shady location. The roots will take around 4 to 6 weeks to form.
Propagation through Grafting
Grafting is a useful method for propagating the Black Apple tree. It involves attaching a scion of the Planchonella Australis to a rootstock of a closely related plant. This method is especially useful when the parent tree is fragile or weak. Use a sharp sterile knife to make a V-shaped cut on both the scion and the rootstock. The cambium layers of both should overlap perfectly. Bind the cuttings tightly with grafting tape and keep the grafting area in a humid and warm place. The grafted plant will start growing in around 3 to 4 weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Planchonella Australis
Planchonella Australis, commonly known as black apple, is a popular and attractive fruit tree that is native to Australia. However, this tree is prone to different diseases and pest problems, which can cause significant damage if not managed properly. Here are some common diseases and pests that affect this plant and suggestions on how to manage them to keep your Planchonella Australis tree healthy and productive.
Common Diseases
Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that causes leaf spots, stem cankers, and fruit rot. It thrives in warm, humid environments and can become a severe problem during periods of frequent rainfall. To manage anthracnose, remove infected leaves and fruits and dispose of them properly. Ensure that the tree is getting enough sunshine and air circulation, and avoid overhead watering.
Bacterial Canker: This is another serious disease of Planchonella Australis that causes cankers and dieback of twigs and branches. It is caused by a bacterium that spreads via pruning tools or rain splashes. To manage bacterial canker, prune out infected branches and avoid pruning during wet weather. Disinfect the pruning tools with a solution of 10% bleach before and after use.
Root Rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots, causing them to rot and preventing the tree from taking up water and nutrients. It usually occurs in poorly drained soils or during wet weather. To manage root rot, ensure that the soil is well-drained. Avoid overwatering, and improve soil drainage by adding organic matter.
Common Pests
Fruit Fly: This is a major pest of Planchonella Australis that causes significant damage to the fruit by laying eggs under the skin. The larvae feed on the pulp, making the fruit inedible. To manage fruit fly, remove fallen fruits from the ground, hang traps baited with protein or sugar, and cover the fruits with bags or netting.
Scale Insects: These are small insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems, causing yellowing, leaf drop, and stunted growth. To manage scale insects, prune out heavily-infested branches, and use horticultural oils or soaps to suffocate the insects.
Mealybugs: These are soft-bodied insects that cluster on the leaves, stems, and fruits, sucking sap from the plant and secreting a sticky honeydew. The honeydew attracts ants and can promote the growth of sooty mold. To manage mealybugs, spray the tree with a solution of water and dish soap, or use natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings to feed on the insects.
By following these disease and pest management strategies, you can keep your Planchonella Australis tree healthy and productive, enjoying a bountiful harvest of delicious fruits year after year.
