Mamey Sapote tree Key West (Pantin), Grafted (Pouteria sapota)
4496 Mamey Sapote tree Key West (Pantin), Grafted (Pouteria sapota)
A unique fruit with an interior texture that is both creamy and sweet, the vibrant salmon-colored flesh of the Pantin mamey sapote is unlike anything most people have ever tasted. The flavor is a combination of sweet potato and pumpkin with undertones of almond, chocolate, honey, and vanilla. The ovoid, medium-large fruit has a large center pit, similar to an avocado. This superior mamey sapote cultivar was discovered growing near a fire station in Key West, Florida. The seeds of this tree were believed to come from Cuba by way of 19th century dissidents who left the island at that time. The tree was originally called the Key West mamey sapote until it was selected and propagated by Eugenio Pantin in the early 1950s. The story goes that a Cuban emigrant named Josefina Jimenez smuggled three mamey seeds into the US in her brassiere and gave them to Pantin, who grew them as seedling rootstocks, onto which he grafted budwood of the Key West mamey tree. Pantin then proceeded to plant a small commercial orchard in Miami-Dade County, Florida. After his death in 1963, Eugenio's son, Donald, took over the family business, and nurseryman, Lawrence Zill, who had recognized the potential of Eugenio's prized cultivar, named it the Pantin mamey sapote.
Today, Pantin represents about 95 percent of the mamey sapotes produced on some 350 acres under cultivation in southern Florida.
Recommended Fertilizer: SUNSHINE C-Cibus - Crop Nutrition Booster
SUNSHINE-Honey - sugar booster
Mamey Sapote tree Key West (Pantin), Grafted (Pouteria sapota): Planting and Care Instructions
Plant Overview
Growth habit: This plant grows into a tall tree, reaching over 20 feet when planted in the ground, making it a great choice for large gardens or open areas where shade is welcome. However, it can be trimmed to maintain a more compact shape and may also be grown in a large container with proper care.
Growing conditions: This plant can be grown outdoors in the suitable USDA zone. It is ideal for planting in large backyard spaces where it has room to spread, but it can also be trimmed and maintained in a large container with proper care.
Watering: This plant needs moderate watering. Allow the top of the soil to dry slightly before watering again.
Sun exposure: This plant grows best in full sun or very bright light. If grown indoors, it should be placed in the brightest spot possible, such as near a south-facing window or under strong grow lights.
USDA Zone: Zone 9-11. The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map categorizes North America into zones based on average annual minimum winter temperatures, each differing by 10 °F. This map serves as a basic guide for selecting appropriate plants for a region. However, it's not definitive; plant varieties vary in cold tolerance, and young plants typically need more protection. Additionally, local microclimates, like sheltered areas or sunny spots, can influence plant health and survivability beyond the general zone recommendation.
Hardiness: Protect from freezing. Plant hardiness indicates the coldest temperature a mature plant can endure briefly while staying healthy. This rating is a guideline and can vary among varieties of the same species. Young plants often need more cold protection. Additionally, a plant's survival can be enhanced by the microclimate of its location, which may provide shelter from wind or extra warmth, allowing it to thrive beyond its typical hardiness range.
Plant type: This is a fruit (Mamey Sapote Key West (Pantin)) tree. With proper care, it will grow tasty delicious delicious fruits.
Deciduous plant: This is a deciduous plant, meaning it sheds its leaves seasonally. During the winter period, it may appear bare or dormant, but this is a natural part of its cycle. Minimal watering and protection from extreme cold may be needed, depending on the plant and climate.
Outdoor planting
Plant in well-draining soil and choose a location that matches the plant light and space needs. Improve poor soils by mixing in compost or organic matter. Dig a hole twice as wide and no deeper than the root ball - planting too deep can harm the plant. For better drainage, position the plant so the top of the root ball is slightly above ground level. Water thoroughly after planting. Outdoor plants may need temporary shade during the first weeks to protect them from strong sun or heat. Watch the soil moisture closely and water regularly until the plant is well established. Apply mulch around the base to help retain moisture and reduce weeds, forming a shallow basin to hold water. Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk or stem to prevent rot.
Indoor planting
Use a container with drainage holes and a well-draining potting mix. Position the plant so that the top of the root ball is level with the surface of the soil - avoid planting too deep. A slow-release fertilizer can be mixed into the soil at planting time to support healthy growth. Place the plant in a location that matches its light needs, and water according to its care requirements. Be careful not to overwater, and ensure good airflow around the plant to reduce the risk of pests and disease.
Protecting Plants in Winter
When it gets cold, some plants need extra help. You can move potted plants indoors or under a covered patio. Young plants need extra protection because they are more sensitive to cold and less established. For plants in the ground, use frost cloth to keep them warm. Stop using fertilizer in late fall so plants can rest. Try to place plants in areas protected from cold wind, rain, and frost.
Cold Hardiness and Microclimates
USDA zone and hardiness are only general guidelines. Actual cold tolerance can vary based on plant variety and local conditions. Even small differences between varieties can matter. Also, warmer spots in your yard—like near a wall or fence—can help plants survive cold nights. These little warm areas are called microclimates, and they make a big difference.