Garcinia spicata

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Garcinia spicata is a fast-growing evergreen tree, ideal for small gardens and areas where a few tropical trees are desired. It grows best in full sun, but can tolerate semi-shade. It is one of the few Garcinia that can be grown in semi-protected zones. It prefers regular water, but will tolerate a dry spell if needed.

This lovely plant grows up to 20 feet tall with a head spreading up to 15 feet. The young trees are very attractive, with bright green, glossy leaves and a central stem. With mature plants, the trunks, branches and leaves become more ornamental and the tree takes on a sleek, slim form. The flowers and fruits are also very attractive. The small, greenish-yellow flowers give way to edible orange-yellow fruits that are full of medicinal properties.

Garcinia spicata is an ethnobotanical plant, with many traditional uses in India and Sri Lanka, where it's often known as the "king of fruits". The orange-yellow fruits have been used for centuries for medicinal purposes.

In areas with a mild climate, Garcinia spicata can thrive outdoors in zones USDA 10-11. In cooler climates, it is best grown in a large pot in an outdoor sheltered area. The tree is cold hardy down to 30°F for a short time. When planting, make sure the location gets enough sun and water. It is important to prune the tree regularly to keep it in shape, as this plant will become top-heavy if not pruned periodically.

Garcinia spicata is an attractive and adaptable tree that can make a great addition to any garden. Low maintenance, salt tolerant and a great source of edible, medicinal fruits, it is worth considering for any tropical or subtropical garden.

Similar plants:

• Garcinia atroviridis (Asam Gelugor, Gelugor)
• Garcinia gummi-gutta, Garcinia cambogia (Brindleberry, Brindall berry, Gambooge, Malabar Tamarind, Kudam Puli)
• Garcinia hombroniana (Seashore Mangosteen, Luli)
• Garcinia livingstonei (Imbe, Rheedia, Lowveld Mangosteen)
• Garcinia mangostana (Mangosteen)
• Garcinia megaphylla, Garcinia macrophylla, Rheedia macrophylla, Garcinia magnifolia, Rheedia magnifolia (Bacuru Pary, Bacuripari )
• Garcinia nervosa (Mountain Garcinia, Pear Mangosteen)
• Garcinia prainiana (Cherapu, Button Mangosteen)
• Garcinia schomburgkiana (Madan)
• Garcinia sp. (Garcinia)