Overview
Pouteria altissima (A.Chev.) Baehni is a fruit-bearing tree found in the tropical rainforests of South America, particularly in the Amazon basin. It is known for its edible fruit and its valuable timber.
Common Names
Pouteria altissima is commonly known as the milk tree, yellow milk tree, and cajá-manga. In Brazil, it is known as abiu-do-pará or abiu amarelo.
Description
The Pouteria altissima tree can grow up to 30 meters tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 90 centimeters. The bark is dark gray and has a rough texture with deep fissures. The leaves are large, oblong in shape, and can be up to 30 centimeters long. The tree produces small, white, fragrant flowers that give way to round or oval-shaped fruit that is 5–10 centimeters in diameter. The fruit has a yellow skin and a soft, juicy pulp that is sweet and highly nutritious.
Uses
The fruit of Pouteria altissima is highly valued for its delicious taste and high nutritional content. It contains high levels of vitamin C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants. The fruit has a variety of culinary uses, including being eaten raw, turned into juice, or used in desserts. The timber of the tree is also highly valued for its durable and attractive wood, which is often used for construction and furniture-making.
Light Conditions:
Pouteria altissima is known to grow well in partial shade to full sun conditions. However, it prefers partial shade to full sun conditions. If it is planted in full sun, it needs to be established with shade to overcome direct heat and sunlight.
Temperature Conditions:
This plant is well suited to tropical and subtropical climates, thriving in temperature ranges between 21°C to 29°C. Nevertheless, it can adapt to lower temperatures of up to 18°C. However, the plant is sensitive to extreme cold and cannot withstand frost.
Soil Requirements:
This plant grows well in well-drained soil types such as sandy loam, loamy sand, clay loam, and red clay soil. The pH level of the soil should range from 4 to 7.5, which is slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. Additionally, P. altissima prefers soils with high organic matter content and good water-holding capacity. The plant is tolerant to drought conditions but cannot thrive in waterlogged soils.
Cultivation Method
Pouteria altissima is a tropical and subtropical plant that thrives well in warm and humid climates. It prefers a well-draining and slightly acidic soil. Planting in a location that offers bright or indirect light is essential, and it can also tolerate partial shade. The plant is widely cultivated from seeds, which should be planted in a seedling mix and kept moist and warm until they germinate.
Watering Needs
Pouteria altissima is sensitive to both over and under-watering. The plant needs regular watering to keep the soil moist, but it should not be waterlogged. During dry seasons, frequent watering is necessary to keep the plant healthy, and during the rainy season, it is best to water less frequently, as excessive water can cause root rot and weaken the plant.
Fertilization
To encourage healthy growth and improve the overall plant's health, it is essential to fertilize the Pouteria altissima regularly. A balanced and slow-release fertilizer should be applied during the growing season; this should be done once or twice in a month. An excessive amount of fertilizer will cause foliage growth at the expense of the flowers and fruit, and consequently weakens the overall plant structure.
Pruning
Pouteria altissima is a plant that grows tall and requires pruning to maintain an attractive shape. Pruning helps to get rid of broken, dead, diseased, or pest-infested branches while promoting the growth of productive new buds. The best time for pruning is during the active growing season, and it should be done after flowering. To avoid the adverse effects of pruning, it is best to use the sterilized cutting tools on the plant.
Propagation of Pouteria Altissima
The propagation of Pouteria altissima can be accomplished through two main methods - seeds and stem cuttings.
Seed Propagation
The first and most common method of propagation is through seeds. The seeds of Pouteria altissima are large and round with a hard coat, and are generally propagated in containers.
Before planting, the seeds must be soaked in warm water for at least 24 hours to help break down their hard coat. After soaking, the seeds can be planted in a mix of sand and loam, covering them lightly with soil.
The container should be kept in a warm and humid environment with temperatures ranging between 25-30 °C. Germination may take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks, and after 6-8 weeks the seedlings can be transplanted to larger containers.
Stem Cutting Propagation
The second method of propagation is through stem cuttings. This method can be more complex and requires careful attention to detail.
Stem cuttings from Pouteria altissima are typically taken during the periods of new growth. A cutting should be at least six inches in length and should have at least two leaves attached.
After cutting, the stem should be dipped in rooting hormone and be planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should be covered with plastic to retain moisture and kept in a warm, humid environment where temperatures range between 25-30 °C.
Roots generally develop within 6-8 weeks, and the plant can be transplanted into a larger container or into the ground.
It is important to note that the success of stem cutting propagation depends on several factors such as humidity, temperature, timing, and the rooting hormone used.
Disease Management
Pouteria altissima is susceptible to various diseases that can affect its growth and yield. Some of the common diseases include:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spots, stem cankers, and fruit rot. To manage anthracnose, remove infected plant debris, promote good air circulation, and apply fungicides.
- Powdery mildew: This disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage powdery mildew, prune affected foliage, improve air circulation, and apply fungicides.
- Bacterial leaf spot: This disease can cause water-soaked spots on the leaves, which later turn brown and necrotic. To manage bacterial leaf spot, remove infected plants, avoid overhead watering, and apply copper-based fungicides.
Pest Management
Pouteria altissima is also susceptible to various pests that can cause damage to the plant. Some of the common pests include:
- Thrips: These small insects can cause extensive damage to the leaves, flowers, and fruit. To manage thrips, remove infested plants, improve air circulation, and apply insecticidal soap.
- Mites: These tiny insects can cause yellowing of the leaves, stunted growth, and leaf drop. To manage mites, remove infested plants, increase humidity, and apply acaricides.
- Scale insects: These insects can cause yellowing of the leaves, stunted growth, and leaf drop. To manage scale insects, remove infested plants, prune affected foliage, and apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oils.
It is important to regularly monitor the plant for any signs of disease or pest infestation. Early detection can help prevent the spread of the disease or pest and minimize damage to the plant. Additionally, it is recommended to practice good cultural practices such as maintaining proper sanitation, providing adequate nutrition, and using disease-resistant cultivars.
