Water
Kokum prefers consistently moist soil but dislikes waterlogged conditions. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering during cooler, dormant periods.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, especially in containers.
Also known as Garcinia · Goa-Butter · Indian Gamboge
Garcinia indica, commonly known as Kokum, is a fruit-bearing tree native to the Western Ghats of India. Its fruit is tart and used in culinary and medicinal applications.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, but can tolerate partial shade, especially in very hot climates.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings. Ensure excellent drainage.
Loam
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Ideal temperatures are between 20-30°C. It is sensitive to frost and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced fertilizer in spring. Supplement with compost annually for optimal growth.
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
Kokum prefers consistently moist soil but dislikes waterlogged conditions. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering during cooler, dormant periods.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, especially in containers.
Prune to shape the tree and remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Light pruning can be done after fruiting to maintain size and encourage bushier growth. Avoid heavy pruning, as it can stress the plant.
Propagation is typically done through seeds, which require stratification and can have slow germination. Grafting is another method, often used for faster fruiting and to maintain desirable traits.
Air layering can also be successful.
Young Kokum plants may need repotting every 2-3 years into slightly larger containers as they outgrow their current ones. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Mature trees are best left in their pots or planted in the ground.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Kokum (Garcinia indica)
Where Kokum (Garcinia indica) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Clusiaceae |
| Genus | Garcinia |
| Species | Garcinia indica |
Similar in genus Garcinia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
