Also known as Ackee · Genip Lime · Geniptree
Genip (Melicoccus bijugatus) is a tropical fruit tree native to northern South America, producing sweet, grape-like fruits enjoyed fresh or in beverages.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruiting.
Moderate to High during establishment and dry periods, moderate otherwise
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not saturated. Reduce watering in cooler months.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm to Hot
75% intensity
Thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. Sensitive to frost; protect from temperatures below 5°C.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Supplement with compost.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Genip trees prefer consistently moist soil but can tolerate brief periods of drought once established. Water deeply and regularly during the dry season, reducing frequency in cooler, wetter months.
Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Prune genip trees to shape them, remove dead or damaged branches, and improve air circulation.
Light pruning can be done at any time, but heavier pruning is best performed after fruiting or in late winter before new growth begins. This encourages a more productive and aesthetically pleasing form.
Genip is typically propagated by seeds, which should be sown fresh. Grafting is also a common method for commercial orchards to ensure desirable fruit quality and faster fruiting.
Softwood cuttings can be taken in spring, but rooting success can be variable.
Young genip trees may require repotting every 1-2 years into a slightly larger container to accommodate root growth. Mature trees in the ground rarely need repotting. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Repot in spring before the onset of active growth for best results.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Genip (Melicoccus bijugatus)
Where Genip (Melicoccus bijugatus) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Melicoccus |
| Species | Melicoccus bijugatus |
Similar in genus Melicoccus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
