Also known as Hog-Plum · Jamaica Plum · Jocote
Red mombin (Spondias purpurea) is a tropical fruit tree producing tart, plum-like fruits. It thrives in warm climates and is cultivated for its edible fruit.
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
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 20-30°C. Protect from frost; it is not cold-hardy.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during the growing season, reduce in winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant season to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogged conditions, as Spondias purpurea is somewhat drought-tolerant once established.
Prune to shape the plant, remove dead or diseased branches, and improve air circulation. Light pruning can be done after fruiting to encourage bushier growth and a more manageable size.
Heavy pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings, 15-30 cm long, taken during the growing season. Allow the cuttings to callus for a few days before planting in a well-draining potting mix.
Rooting is typically successful within a few weeks in warm conditions.
Repot young plants annually or every two years in spring. Mature plants can be repotted less frequently, only when root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat moss, perlite, and sandy loam.
Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Red Mombin (Spondias purpurea)
Where Red Mombin (Spondias purpurea) 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 | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Spondias |
| Species | Spondias purpurea |
Similar in genus Spondias
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
