June Plum (Spondias dulcis)

June Plum

Spondias dulcis

Juicy golden fruits balance ornamental foliage and edible harvest. Tropical fruiting tree; common names: June Plum, Golden Apple.

Full sun
2–3/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun for optimal fruiting; young saplings tolerate dappled partial shade
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Watering Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil dries out; reduce frequency during cool, dormant periods
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Temperature Thrives in warm tropical climates; cannot survive frost below 10°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Pinnately compound, 30–60 cm long; oblong glossy green leaflets 10–15 cm long
  • Flower: Small creamy-white blooms in 40 cm long panicles
  • Fruit: Oval 5–10 cm drupe; green unripe, golden-yellow mature with crisp tangy flesh
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged to support fruiting

Fertilization

Apply balanced organic feed every 4 weeks to support new growth. Prioritize potassium-rich feeds during fruiting season to boost fruit quality

Banana peel compost tea:Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestations and odor
Pruning
  • Prune dead or damaged branches in early spring to maintain tree shape and health
  • Thin overcrowded inner branches to improve air circulation and light penetration for fruiting
  • Trim lower sapling branches to encourage upright trunk growth as the tree matures
  • Remove suckers to direct energy to the main trunk and fruiting branches
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no known adverse effects

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; ripe fruit is edible raw or cooked

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Edible ripe fruit (raw, pickled, or cooked into jams); ornamental shade tree for tropical gardens