Caimito Tree - Green
Original price
$65.00
-
Original price
$65.00
Original price
$65.00
$65.00
-
$65.00
Current price
$65.00
The Green Caimito Tree, a tropical fruit tree native to Central and South America, is prized for its sweet, juicy fruit and ornamental qualities. Known scientifically as Chrysophyllum cainito, it produces star apples, which are valued for their unique flavor and lush, evergreen foliage. Below is a comprehensive overview of its characteristics, care requirements, and planting guidelines.Taste
The Green Caimito, or star apple, has a sweet, creamy flesh with a flavor often described as a blend of custard, caramel, and tropical notes. The fruit is typically green-skinned with a juicy, translucent white or purplish pulp surrounding a few shiny black seeds. Its texture is soft and smooth, making it ideal for eating fresh, scooping out with a spoon, or blending into smoothies and desserts. The taste is less tart than other tropical fruits like mango, with a rich, dessert-like sweetness that appeals to those who enjoy exotic fruits.Best Growing Environment
The Green Caimito Tree thrives in warm, humid tropical climates, ideally in USDA Zones 9b–11, Zone 9b may require protection the first year from frost. It prefers rich, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5–7.0), amended with organic matter like compost or aged manure to enhance fertility and drainage. The tree does best in lowland tropical regions, such as southern Florida, Puerto Rico, or coastal areas of Central America, where temperatures remain above 40°F. It can be grown in large containers (20–30 gallons) for mobility in cooler climates, allowing indoor overwintering. A sheltered location is essential to protect the tree from strong winds, which can damage its broad leaves and shallow root system.Common Names
The Green Caimito Tree is known by several names, reflecting its cultural and regional significance:
The Green Caimito Tree typically grows to an average height of 25–35 feet in ideal conditions, with a spread of 20–30 feet. In cultivation, particularly in containers or with regular pruning, it can be maintained at 10–15 feet, making it suitable for smaller gardens or patios. Its dense, rounded canopy and glossy, dark green leaves give it an attractive, ornamental appearance, even when not fruiting.Growth Rate
The Green Caimito has a moderate growth rate, typically adding 1–2 feet per year under optimal conditions. It takes 5–7 years to reach fruit-bearing maturity from seed, though grafted trees may fruit in 3–4 years. After planting, the tree establishes slowly, requiring consistent care to develop a strong root system. Once mature, it produces fruit annually, with new growth primarily in spring and summer. Regular pruning to remove dead or crowded branches can encourage faster growth and better fruit production.Sun Requirements
This tree requires full sun, receiving at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, to maximize growth and fruit production. In hotter climates, partial afternoon shade can prevent leaf scorching during peak summer heat, especially for young trees. When grown indoors or in containers, place the tree near a south-facing window or under grow lights to ensure adequate light exposure. Insufficient sunlight leads to leggy growth, reduced flowering, and lower fruit yields.Cold Hardiness
The Green Caimito Tree is hardy in USDA Zones 9b–11, tolerating temperatures of 30–35°F. It is sensitive to frost, with young trees suffering damage below 40°F and mature trees potentially losing leaves or branches at 32°F. In Zone 9b, provide winter protection, such as frost blankets or moving potted trees indoors, to prevent cold damage. The tree’s shallow roots can survive brief cold snaps, but prolonged exposure below 30°F may kill it.Water Requirements
The Green Caimito prefers consistently moist soil, requiring regular watering to keep the top 2–4 inches of soil damp but not waterlogged. Water young trees every 2–3 days during establishment, reducing to once or twice weekly for mature trees, depending on rainfall. In tropical climates like Puerto Rico, natural rainfall often suffices, but supplemental watering is needed during dry seasons. For container-grown trees, ensure proper drainage to avoid root rot, watering when the top inch of soil feels dry. Overwatering can lead to fungal issues, while underwatering may cause leaf drop or poor fruit development.Planting Guide
To plant a Green Caimito Tree:
Fertilize the Green Caimito Tree every 6–8 weeks during the growing season (March–September in Zones 9b–11) to support vigorous growth and fruiting. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with a 10-10-10 or 8-3-9 NPK ratio, applying 1–2 pounds per tree for mature specimens, spread evenly around the drip line and watered in. For young trees, use half the amount to avoid burning roots. In Puerto Rico’s year-round warm climate, continue light fertilization (e.g., every 8 weeks) during cooler months (October–February) if growth persists. Avoid fertilizing during dormancy or excessive heat to prevent stress. Organic alternatives like compost tea or fish emulsion can supplement chemical fertilizers.
The Green Caimito, or star apple, has a sweet, creamy flesh with a flavor often described as a blend of custard, caramel, and tropical notes. The fruit is typically green-skinned with a juicy, translucent white or purplish pulp surrounding a few shiny black seeds. Its texture is soft and smooth, making it ideal for eating fresh, scooping out with a spoon, or blending into smoothies and desserts. The taste is less tart than other tropical fruits like mango, with a rich, dessert-like sweetness that appeals to those who enjoy exotic fruits.Best Growing Environment
The Green Caimito Tree thrives in warm, humid tropical climates, ideally in USDA Zones 9b–11, Zone 9b may require protection the first year from frost. It prefers rich, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5–7.0), amended with organic matter like compost or aged manure to enhance fertility and drainage. The tree does best in lowland tropical regions, such as southern Florida, Puerto Rico, or coastal areas of Central America, where temperatures remain above 40°F. It can be grown in large containers (20–30 gallons) for mobility in cooler climates, allowing indoor overwintering. A sheltered location is essential to protect the tree from strong winds, which can damage its broad leaves and shallow root system.Common Names
The Green Caimito Tree is known by several names, reflecting its cultural and regional significance:
- Green Star Apple
- Caimito
- Cainito
- Star Apple
- Chrysophyllum cainito (botanical name)
The Green Caimito Tree typically grows to an average height of 25–35 feet in ideal conditions, with a spread of 20–30 feet. In cultivation, particularly in containers or with regular pruning, it can be maintained at 10–15 feet, making it suitable for smaller gardens or patios. Its dense, rounded canopy and glossy, dark green leaves give it an attractive, ornamental appearance, even when not fruiting.Growth Rate
The Green Caimito has a moderate growth rate, typically adding 1–2 feet per year under optimal conditions. It takes 5–7 years to reach fruit-bearing maturity from seed, though grafted trees may fruit in 3–4 years. After planting, the tree establishes slowly, requiring consistent care to develop a strong root system. Once mature, it produces fruit annually, with new growth primarily in spring and summer. Regular pruning to remove dead or crowded branches can encourage faster growth and better fruit production.Sun Requirements
This tree requires full sun, receiving at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, to maximize growth and fruit production. In hotter climates, partial afternoon shade can prevent leaf scorching during peak summer heat, especially for young trees. When grown indoors or in containers, place the tree near a south-facing window or under grow lights to ensure adequate light exposure. Insufficient sunlight leads to leggy growth, reduced flowering, and lower fruit yields.Cold Hardiness
The Green Caimito Tree is hardy in USDA Zones 9b–11, tolerating temperatures of 30–35°F. It is sensitive to frost, with young trees suffering damage below 40°F and mature trees potentially losing leaves or branches at 32°F. In Zone 9b, provide winter protection, such as frost blankets or moving potted trees indoors, to prevent cold damage. The tree’s shallow roots can survive brief cold snaps, but prolonged exposure below 30°F may kill it.Water Requirements
The Green Caimito prefers consistently moist soil, requiring regular watering to keep the top 2–4 inches of soil damp but not waterlogged. Water young trees every 2–3 days during establishment, reducing to once or twice weekly for mature trees, depending on rainfall. In tropical climates like Puerto Rico, natural rainfall often suffices, but supplemental watering is needed during dry seasons. For container-grown trees, ensure proper drainage to avoid root rot, watering when the top inch of soil feels dry. Overwatering can lead to fungal issues, while underwatering may cause leaf drop or poor fruit development.Planting Guide
To plant a Green Caimito Tree:
- Location: Select a sunny, wind-protected site with well-draining, fertile soil. For containers, use a 20–30-gallon pot with drainage holes.
- Soil Preparation: Dig a hole 2–3 times the width of the root ball and as deep, mixing 50% native soil with 50% compost or organic matter to improve drainage and nutrients.
- Planting: Gently remove the tree from its nursery pot, loosen the roots, and place it in the hole at the same depth as it was grown. Backfill, tamp lightly, and water thoroughly.
- Mulching: Apply 3–4 inches of organic mulch (e.g., wood chips or bark) in a 3–4-foot radius around the base, keeping it 4–6 inches from the trunk to prevent rot.
- Spacing: Space trees 15–20 feet apart to accommodate their canopy and root spread.
- Container Planting: Use a well-draining, loamy potting mix and repot every 2–3 years to refresh soil and manage root growth.
Fertilize the Green Caimito Tree every 6–8 weeks during the growing season (March–September in Zones 9b–11) to support vigorous growth and fruiting. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with a 10-10-10 or 8-3-9 NPK ratio, applying 1–2 pounds per tree for mature specimens, spread evenly around the drip line and watered in. For young trees, use half the amount to avoid burning roots. In Puerto Rico’s year-round warm climate, continue light fertilization (e.g., every 8 weeks) during cooler months (October–February) if growth persists. Avoid fertilizing during dormancy or excessive heat to prevent stress. Organic alternatives like compost tea or fish emulsion can supplement chemical fertilizers.