Water
Water regularly once established, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Young plants require more consistent moisture.
Reduce watering during cooler months, especially if grown in cooler climates, to prevent root rot.
Also known as Blue Sourplum · Buol · False Sandalwood
Tallowwood (Ximenia americana) is a thorny shrub or small tree native to tropical and subtropical regions, producing edible fruit and oil-rich seeds.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings once established.
Sandy, Loamy, Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures, but can tolerate some cooler periods. Protect from frost.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly, if at all, with a balanced slow-release formula in spring.
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
Water regularly once established, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Young plants require more consistent moisture.
Reduce watering during cooler months, especially if grown in cooler climates, to prevent root rot.
Prune to shape, remove dead or damaged branches, and improve air circulation. Light pruning can be done after flowering.
For larger plants or hedges, more significant pruning can be undertaken in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Propagate from seeds sown in spring, which may require scarification or stratification. Cuttings can also be taken from semi-hardwood in summer and rooted under humid conditions with bottom heat.
Repot young plants every 1-2 years in spring as needed. Mature plants are generally best left undisturbed. Use a well-draining potting mix. Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Tallowwood (Ximenia americana)
Where Tallowwood (Ximenia americana) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Santalales |
| Family | Olacaceae |
| Genus | Ximenia |
| Species | Ximenia americana |
Similar in genus Ximenia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
