Sandoricum koetjape, commonly known as the santol or cotton fruit, is a tropical fruit tree native to Southeast Asia. Here's a brief overview:
Description:
Tree Size: Can grow up to 30 meters (98 feet) in height.
Leaves: Glossy, dark green, and compound, typically with three leaflets.
Flowers: Small, fragrant, and yellowish-green, forming in clusters.
Fruit:
Round, about 4-7 cm in diameter.
Skin is yellowish to reddish when ripe.
Contains a thick, white, juicy pulp around several seeds, with a taste ranging from sweet to sour.
Uses:
Culinary:
The pulp is eaten fresh, used in preserves, or cooked in various dishes.
Seeds should not be consumed as they may cause digestive issues.
Medicinal:
Traditional uses include treatments for fevers, stomachaches, and skin conditions.
The bark and leaves are also used in folk medicine.
Wood:
The wood is durable and used in construction or for making furniture.
Growing Conditions:
Climate: Thrives in tropical and subtropical climates.
Soil: Prefers well-draining, fertile soil.
Watering: Requires consistent moisture but avoids waterlogging.
Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade.
Propagation: Typically grown from seeds, but can also be propagated via cuttings or grafting.
Cultivation and Care of Sandoricum koetjape (Santol):
1. Climate Requirements:
Temperature: Grows best in tropical climates with temperatures between 25°C and 35°C (77°F to 95°F).
Rainfall: Requires 1,500–2,500 mm of annual rainfall.
Altitude: Can grow up to 1,000 meters above sea level but prefers lowland areas.
2. Soil:
Prefers well-drained loamy soil with good organic matter.
Tolerates slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5–7.5).
Avoids waterlogged or highly saline soils.
3. Planting:
Seed Propagation: Sow fresh seeds in a nursery bed; germination takes 2-4 weeks.
Spacing: Maintain a spacing of 10–12 meters between trees for proper growth.
Transplanting: Seedlings can be transplanted once they are 30–50 cm tall, usually after 6–12 months.
4. Watering:
Needs regular watering, especially during the dry season.
Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
5. Fertilization:
Apply organic compost or manure during planting.
Use balanced fertilizers (e.g., NPK 10-10-10) every 4-6 months to encourage healthy growth and fruit production.
6. Pruning:
Prune young trees to develop a strong framework.
Remove dead or diseased branches to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration.
7. Pests and Diseases:
Common Pests: Fruit borers, aphids, and mealybugs.
Control pests using organic insecticides like neem oil or chemical sprays as needed.
Diseases: Anthracnose and root rot.
Use fungicides and ensure good drainage to prevent disease.
Uses of Santol:
1. Culinary Uses:
Fresh Consumption: The white pulp is eaten raw, often with salt, sugar, or chili powder.
Cooking: Used in traditional Southeast Asian dishes like curries, soups, or sour stews.
Preserves: Made into jams, jellies, and candies.
2. Medicinal Uses:
Bark and Leaves: Used in traditional medicine for treating diarrhea, fever, and skin irritations.
Fruit: Believed to aid digestion due to its high fiber content.
3. Other Uses:
Wood: Durable and used in furniture, tool handles, and construction.
Natural Dye: The bark produces a yellowish dye.
Ornamental: Sometimes planted as a shade tree in home gardens.
Tips for Success:
Protect young plants from strong winds.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Regularly monitor for pests and diseases, addressing issues promptly.
