Red Hog Plum

Key Features of Red Hog Plum Tree

• Average Height & Width: 15-25 feet tall; 10-20 feet wide
• Does it Grow Well in a Container?: It can be grown in a container, especially when young, but it may require repotting or transplanting as it matures due to its potential size.
• Cold Temperature in Fahrenheit: Sensitive to temperatures below 50°F (10°C); best suited for tropical and subtropical climates.
• Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade, but prefers full sun for optimal growth and fruit production.
• Common Names: Red Hog Plum, Jocote, Ciruela, Siriguela
• Scientific Name: Spondias purpurea
• USDA Zone: 9-11
• Fruit Production Months: Typically produces fruit from late summer to early fall, but this can vary depending on the climate and growing conditions.
• Growth Rate: Approximately 2-3 feet per year

Taste

The Red Hog Plum, also known as Jocote, produces small, oval fruits that are typically red or purple when ripe. The flesh of the fruit is juicy and ranges in flavor from sweet to slightly tart, depending on the variety and ripeness. The taste has been compared to a blend of mango, plum, and tamarind, with a unique tangy sweetness that makes it popular in fresh eating, preserves, and beverages.

The skin of the fruit is edible but can be a bit tough or sour, particularly when the fruit is not fully ripe. The pulp is rich in vitamin C and is enjoyed fresh, dried, or used in various culinary dishes in many cultures. Some people prefer to eat the fruit slightly underripe with a sprinkle of salt or chili powder to enhance its tartness.