Diospyros nigra (Black Sapote) Plant

Description

Diospyros nigra, known as Black Sapote, is a tropical fruit tree native to Mexico, Central America, and Colombia. These evergreen trees can grow to over 25m in height with an attractive glossy green foliage and produce fruit typically in the colder months. They prefer tropical climates with warm temperatures and well-drained soil. They are sensitive to frost and require protection in cooler climates.

The common name sapote refers to any soft, edible fruit. Black sapote is not related to white sapote nor mamey sapote. The fruit are tomato-like and measure 5–10 cm in diameter, with an inedible skin that turns from olive to a deep yellow-green when ripe.

The pulp of the Black Sapote fruit when white and unripe is inedible. However, when ripe the pulp takes on a flavour, colour and texture often likened to chocolate pudding. The fruit can be eaten fresh, scooped out with a spoon like pudding. It’s also used in various culinary applications, such as smoothies, desserts, ice creams, and even as a chocolate substitute in recipes.

Black sapote fruit is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and calcium. Like many fruits, black sapote is low in calories and contains beneficial nutrients. It’s often lauded for its high vitamin C content, which is essential for immune function and collagen production. Additionally, its fibre content can aid in digestion and promote feelings of fullness.

• Common name.

Chocolate Pudding Fruit; Black Soapapple; Zapote Prieto.

• Botanical Synonym.

Diospyros digyna

• Specifications.

50mm Pot Size
Seed Grown Plant

Ideal Growing Conditions.

Black Sapote prefers a sunny position but can tolerate some shade. Requires heavy watering, and is drought intolerant. It is frost sensitive but can tolerate light frosts once established.

Pruning: Diospyros nigra require minimal pruning required once established. Best pruned in late winter to early spring, before vigorous new growth begins.

Pests and Diseases: Monitor your plant for pests like scale, mealybugs, aphids or spider mites. Diospyros nigra is generally considered fairly hardy and not heavily troubled by pests, but a few common tropical fruit tree issues can occur. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap, Eco Oil or Neem Oil

Soil: You need a high quality potting mix, not a pre-bagged product such as you find at Bunnings etc, try a landscaping place. However, as I am not local to you I still can’t say if they have good quality or not. You are looking for well composted pine bark and large particles. This ensures air flow to the roots and good drainage.

We recommend Yates Nutricote Standard Black 270 Day for a fertiliser, which can be found in our store, however any good quality slow release fertiliser will do. When time to re-pot, select a pot one size up ONLY and ensure it has many holes for good drainage.

Fertiliser: 

Yates Nutricote Standard Black 270 Day Controlled Release Fertiliser

The Plant Runner Indoor Plant Food

We cannot send plants to Western Australia & Tasmania due to restrictions.

We strongly recommended to select Express Post shipping for all plant orders to minimise the transit time.

Want to see more fruit trees? Have a look at these links

Casimiroa edulis (White Sapote) Plant

Citrus australasica (BXL Finger Lime) Plant

Eugenia uniflora (Brazilian Cherry) Plant

*Traditional uses and general information on products are provided for educational purposes only. We do not make any therapeutic claims. Nothing contained in this site is intended to be used as medical advice and it is not intended to be used to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes or as a substitute for your own health professional’s advice.