Manilkara zapota (Sapodilla)


Botanical Information

FamilySapotaceae
GenusManilkara
Specieszapota
CategoryTropicals, Woody
TypeTree (evergreen)
OriginNative to Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone10-11
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness ZoneRequires cool season protection under glass.
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH1c-H3
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-1.1-10
Temperature (°F)30-50
Height20-30 m
Spread1.5 m
GrowthSlow

Description and Growing Information

ShapeTall, pyramid shape but grows into an open-rounded crown as it matures.
LandscapeOrnamental, shade tree or planted for the fruit.
PropagationPropagated by seed and will germinate after 30 days.
CultivationTolerates a variety of conditions in wet tropical and dry, cool subtropical climates. Thrives in hot, moist climates in full sun.
Notable SpecimensHarry P. Leu Gardens, Orlando, Florida, United States of America.
HabitatLowland and coastal forests.
Leaf DescriptionThe leaves are elliptical, glossy and green to 7-15 cm long. They are arranged in spirally on the branch.
Flower DescriptionBell-shaped flowers are pale pink-white.
Fruit DescriptionThe spherical berries have a rough brown skin and grow 5-10 cm across. The fruit takes 4 months to mature and contain brownish-black seeds.

Photographs