Table of Contents
What Is Sapodilla Fruit?
Sapodilla fruit, also known as Sapota or Sapodilla (scientific name: Manilkara zapota), is a slow-growing, evergreen tropical fruit tree belonging to the Sapotaceae family. This fruit originates from the Yucatán Peninsula and nearby regions of southern Mexico, Belize, and northeastern Guatemala. It was later introduced and cultivated in Central America, parts of the Caribbean, the West Indies, and southern Florida.
Although sapodilla does not hold major commercial importance worldwide, it is highly valued in many tropical and subtropical regions where it is commonly consumed fresh. The flavor of sapodilla is sweet, often described as a mix between dates and pears.
Characteristics of the Sapodilla Tree
Height
Sapodilla is considered a medium-sized tree, capable of reaching up to 30 meters in height.
Leaves
The leaves are glossy, light green, and oval-shaped, ranging from 5 to 12.5 cm in length.
Flowers
The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers.
Fruits
Sapodilla fruits are round to oval-shaped, brown in color, and measure 5–10 cm in diameter.
Seeds
When ripe, the fruit contains 2 to 5 shiny black seeds, similar in size to beans.
Propagation
Sapodilla is commonly propagated from seeds, though grafting is also used for producing cultivated varieties.
Where Is the Best Place to Grow a Sapodilla Tree?
Soil
Sapodilla thrives in rich, organic soil. Mulching is recommended to help retain soil moisture.
Soil pH
The optimal soil pH ranges between 6 and 8.
Light
The tree should be planted in a location with full sunlight to achieve the best growth and fruit production.
Temperature
Sapodilla can grow outside strictly tropical climates. Mature trees can withstand short periods at -3°C.
In regions cooler than subtropical climates, it is best to grow sapodilla in a greenhouse, or in a container so it can be moved or protected during storms or frost.
How to Care for a Sapodilla Tree
Pruning
Prune the tree in winter to remove weak or damaged branches. Light pruning can also be done year-round, especially after fruiting.
Fertilizing
- During the first year: use a general-purpose fertilizer 5-5-5 every 8–10 weeks (follow package instructions).
- For established trees: apply 1–2 kg of fertilizer 2–3 times per year, spreading it around the base of the tree.
Watering
- For newly planted sapodilla: water every other day during the first week.
- After one month: water twice per week for 6–8 months.
- Mature trees (4–5 years old): require much less frequent irrigation as their roots become well-established.
