Introduce the unique and exotic Lucuma to your garden for a touch of the Andean tropics! Known for its sweet, egg-shaped fruit with a dry, starchy texture, the Lucuma tree also offers an attractive foliage display, making it a dual-purpose ornamental and fruit-bearing tree.
Planting Calendar
Harvest In
3 + Years
Lucuma fruits mature in late summer to early autumn. They are ready to harvest when they detach easily from the tree. The fruit is typically eaten when fully ripe, with a unique flavor often described as a mix of sweet potato and maple. It's widely used in desserts, smoothies, and ice creams.
Prepare
Position
Lucuma trees flourish in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. They prefer a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Choose a spot sheltered from strong winds to protect the tree and its fruit.
Soil
Lucuma tend to be hardy trees, thriving in most well-draining, fertile soil. Just make sure the soil doesn't get waterlogged.
Plant
The best time to plant Lucuma trees is during the warm, frost-free months of spring. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball. Incorporate a slow-release fertiliser like Tui Novatec Premium Fertiliser with the native soil before planting. Ensure the tree is planted at the same depth it was in its container.
Care
Watering
Lucuma trees require regular watering to establish a deep root system, especially in the first few years. Water deeply but allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering. Avoid overwatering, as Lucuma trees are sensitive to root rot.
Feeding
Fertilise with a balanced, all-purpose fertiliser like Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster every 4-6 weeks during the active growing season. Apply Kings Citrus & Fruit Tree Fertiliser in early spring to support healthy growth and fruit production.
Protecting
Protect the tree from frost and extreme cold, as Lucuma trees are sensitive to low temperatures. Adjust watering according to seasonal changes and weather conditions.
Mulching
Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as Living Earth More than Mulch, around the base of the tree. This helps in retaining soil moisture, controlling weeds, and providing additional nutrients as it decomposes.
Pruning
Prune Lucuma trees sparingly to remove any dead or diseased branches and to shape the tree. Pruning is best done after the fruiting season has ended.
General Care
Regularly check for pests like aphids and caterpillars. Use eco-friendly pest control methods and always follow the instructions on the label.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Lucuma tree?
Lucuma (Pouteria lucuma) is a subtropical fruit tree native to the Andean valleys of Peru, Chile, and Ecuador. It produces a fruit that has a sweet, creamy flavour often compared to maple syrup or sweet potato.
How do I plant a Lucuma tree?
The best time to plant Lucuma trees is during the warm, frost-free months of spring. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball. Incorporate a slow-release fertiliser like Tui Novatec Premium Fertiliser with the native soil before planting. Ensure the tree is planted at the same depth it was in its container.
How much water does a Lucuma tree need?
Lucuma trees require regular watering to establish a deep root system, especially in the first few years. Water deeply but allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering. Avoid overwatering, as Lucuma trees are sensitive to root rot.
How do I prune a Lucuma tree?
Prune Lucuma trees sparingly to remove any dead or diseased branches and to shape the tree. Pruning is best done after the fruiting season has ended.
How do I harvest Lucuma fruit?
Lucuma fruits mature in late summer to early autumn. They are ready to harvest when they detach easily from the tree. The fruit is typically eaten when fully ripe, with a unique flavor often described as a mix of sweet potato and maple. It's widely used in desserts, smoothies, and ice creams.