Achachairu (Garcinia humilis)

Achachairu

Garcinia humilis

Its golden fruits hold tart-sweet sunshine, a tropical gem for warm gardens. Evergreen fruiting shrub; common names: Achachairu, Baboon Mango.

Full sun
2–3/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates dappled sunlight in hot tropical climates
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in warm tropical to subtropical temperatures; cannot tolerate frost below 10°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Glossy, elliptical, dark green leaves with smooth margins, 5–10 cm long
  • Flower: Small, creamy-white, fragrant flowers in clusters at leaf axils
  • Fruit: Round, golden-yellow berries with tart, juicy pulp surrounding large seeds
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Care Guide

Watering

Maintain consistent soil moisture; apply 5–10 cm of mulch to retain water

Fertilization

Feed with balanced organic fertilizer every 4 weeks. Switch to potassium-rich fertilizer 2 months before fruiting to support fruit development

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels fully for 4–6 weeks; dilute 1:25 with water for root drench to avoid burning delicate feeder roots
Pruning
  • Remove dead or damaged branches to improve airflow and light penetration
  • Thin overcrowded inner growth to encourage fruiting wood development
  • Prune lightly after harvest to maintain desired shrub shape and size
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No known toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects to humans when consumed or handled appropriately

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Edible fruit for fresh eating, jams, and tropical beverages; ornamental evergreen foliage for landscape screening