Overview of Pouteria brevipes
Pouteria brevipes (Baker) Baehni is a small to medium-sized tropical tree belonging to the family Sapotaceae. The plant is native to Central and South America, specifically to Belize, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, and Panama. It is commonly known as Caimitillo, Saca-sapote, and Wild Sapodilla.
General Appearance
The Pouteria brevipes tree can grow up to 30 feet tall and has a moderately dense, spreading crown with a compact, rounded shape. Its bark is dark grey-brown and has irregular fissures. The plant's leaves are smooth, glossy, and leathery, ranging from 4 to 9 inches in length and 1 to 4 inches in width. The leaves have a bright green color with a pointed ovate shape. The fluorescent, star-shaped flowers grow up to an inch across and are yellowish-white in color.
Uses
The fruit produced by the Pouteria brevipes is edible, commonly used in local cuisine to make jellies, pies, and ice creams. The fruit is small and round, and its skin ranges from tan to brown, while the interior is white. Additionally, the plant is used for medicinal purposes, where the fruit is given to fight diarrhea and vomiting. The bark, wood, and leaves of the plant are used in traditional medicine to treat urinary tract infections, respiratory problems, and fever. The Pouteria brevipes is also used for ornamental purposes in public parks and private gardens for its aesthetic appearance.
Cultivation
Pouteria brevipes thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils. The plant is tolerant of high humidity, and its growing season varies from spring to summer. Young plants require regular watering and beneficial fertilization, while mature trees require occasional pruning and moderate watering. Propagation is mainly through seeds and cuttings, while grafting techniques can be used to promote rapid growth and productivity
Light Requirements
Pouteria brevipes requires partial to full sunlight to grow. It is not recommended to place this plant in full shade for a long period as it may hamper growth. The plant can tolerate full sun, but this is not recommended in locations that experience high temperatures throughout the day.
Temperature Requirements
Pouteria brevipes can tolerate both cool and warm temperatures. The plant can thrive in temperatures ranging from 50-85°F (10-29°C). However, it is important to note that the plant is sensitive to frost and extreme cold temperatures. It is best to keep the plant in a location that is protected from frost and heavy snowfall to ensure optimal growth and health.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for growing Pouteria brevipes is moist, well-draining, and rich in organic matter. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (6.0-7.5). Sandy loam soils with good drainage are perfect for this plant. It is recommended to incorporate organic matter such as compost or aged manure into the soil before planting to enhance the soil's nutrient content and water-holding capacity.
Cultivation
Pouteria brevipes (Baker) Baehni, commonly known as the short-stemmed Pouteria, is a tropical tree that originates from Central and South America. If you want this plant to thrive, it requires warm and humid climatic conditions. Therefore, the ideal conditions for cultivation are in USDA hardiness zones 10 to 12.
The plant needs well-draining soil that is fertile and rich in nutrients. Sandy loam soil with pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5 will be the best option for your plant. Additionally, provide it with adequate sunlight to encourage its growth.
Watering Needs
The Pouteria brevipes tree needs regular watering to develop. However, ensure the soil retains moisture and avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot. During hot seasons, water your plant frequently while keeping the soil moist always. On the other hand, reduce watering during the rainy seasons or winter.
Fertilization
Fertilizers are essential in providing extra nutrients needed for the Pouteria brevipes to grow correctly. Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer during the growing season. The fertilization should be done every six to eight weeks to promote the development of leaves, flowers, and fruits. Ensure you follow the recommended instructions to prevent burning the roots while applying the fertilizer.
Additionally, supplementing organic matter to the soil will also provide nutrients to the plant and improve its soil structure.
Pruning
While the Pouteria brevipes tree can grow up to 10 meters tall, you don't need to prune it regularly as it grows naturally into a pleasing shape. However, prune the plant occasionally to remove dead or diseased branches. This pruning should be done during the dormant season, preferably late winter or early spring, to allow the plant time to heal before the next growing season.
Propagation of Pouteria brevipes
The Pouteria brevipes (Baker) Baehni, commonly known as "apic-doum," is a tropical fruit-bearing tree native to the Congo region of Africa. Propagation of this plant is typically done through the use of seeds or cuttings.
Propagation by seeds
Pouteria brevipes can be propagated by seeds, which are readily available from the fruit of the tree. Seeds from ripe fruits should be extracted and washed. The best seeds will sink, while the bad ones will float. The viable seeds should be planted in a well-draining soil mix in pots or directly in the ground at a depth of about 1 cm. Seed planting should be done during the rainy season, and the soil must be kept moist for the first few weeks after planting. Germination can take up to 3 months. Seedling trees can be transplanted to their permanent location once they are big enough.
Propagation by cuttings
Cuttings can also propagate Pouteria brevipes. A 10-20 cm long stem cutting with a diameter of at least 1 cm should be taken from a young tree during the growing season. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped into rooting hormone powder. The cutting should then be placed into a well-draining soil mix and kept moist. The cuttings should be covered with a plastic bag to maintain humidity until they root. After rooting, the cuttings can be transferred to a bigger container or planted directly in the ground.
Disease Management
Pouteria brevipes is generally a disease-resistant plant, but under unfavorable conditions, it may be susceptible to various diseases. Here are some common diseases that may affect Pouteria brevipes and suggestions for managing them:
Fusarium Wilt
Fusarium wilt is a common soil-borne fungus that affects Pouteria brevipes. It causes the leaves to turn yellow, wilt, and eventually die. To manage this disease, avoid planting Pouteria brevipes in infected soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and remove any affected plant parts as soon as possible.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is another fungal disease that affects Pouteria brevipes. It causes a white powdery substance to appear on the leaves and stems. To manage this disease, avoid overcrowding plants and improve air circulation. You can also use a fungicide that is safe for Pouteria brevipes.
Phytophthora Root Rot
Phytophthora root rot is a water-borne fungus that affects the roots of Pouteria brevipes. It causes stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and eventually death of the plant. Improve drainage to avoid waterlogging, and plant Pouteria brevipes in well-draining soil. You can also use a fungicide that is safe for Pouteria brevipes.
Pest Management
Pouteria brevipes is generally resistant to pests, but there are some pests that may affect the plant. Here are some common pests that may affect Pouteria brevipes and suggestions for managing them:
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small insects that suck sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and eventually death. To manage these pests, remove any affected plant parts and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Mites
Mites are tiny insects that can cause leaves to dry out and turn brown. They are often found on the undersides of leaves. To manage these pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil and avoid overcrowding plants.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are small insects that can cause leaves to yellow and drop off. They produce a waxy coating that makes them difficult to remove. To manage these pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil and physically remove scales with a soft brush or cloth.
