Manilkara zapota aka Chiku
Taxonomy ID: 467
Manilkara zapota, commonly known as sapodilla, sapote, chicozapote, chico, chicle, naseberry, or nispero, is a long-lived, evergreen tree native to southern Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. Its specific epithet, zapota, is from the Spanish zapote word which derives from the Nahuatl word tzapotl. It is attractive and perfect for edible landscaping, however its growth rate is very slow. It is wind resistant and long-lived and can grow up to 100 feet in the tropics. It has a white, gummy latex when damaged and needs regular watering and direct, long-lasting light to thrive. Sapodilla can be used as a houseplant and can be kept up to one foot away from a window.
Common names
Chiku, Sapodilla, Sapote, SapotaMore information about Chiku
How difficult is it to take care of Chiku
If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Chiku is a great choice to test your gardening skills.
What is the region of origin of Chiku
Chiku’s native range is C. America - Panama to Mexico.
What are the water needs for Chiku
Chiku should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the sunlight requirement for Chiku
Chiku requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Sapodilla is always in the right place to thrive.
Is Chiku toxic to humans/pets?
There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.
More info:
Wikipedia
