LIFE CYCLE
Perennial
PLANT CHARACTERISTICS
Exotic
GROWTH HABIT
Upright
BLOOM SEASON
Spring to summer
FLAVOUR PROFILE
Sweet
SUITABLE FOR
Outdoor
SEED TYPE
Non-GMO
PLANT TYPE
Tropical fruit
PLANTING SEASON
Spring to early monsoon
FRUIT SIZE
3–6 inches
PLANT HEIGHT
25–40 feet
LIGHT REQUIREMENT
Full sun
WATER NEEDS
Moderate
HARDINESS ZONES
USDA 9–11
CONTAINER GARDEN
Yes
PLANT SPACING
20–25 feet
PLANTING DEPTH
1 inch
GROWING CONDITIONS
Warm
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Lucuma called the egg yolk fruit?
Why is Lucuma called the egg yolk fruit?
The name refers to the ripe fruit's distinctive yellow-orange flesh and its dense, dry texture, which can resemble cooked egg yolk.
Can Lucuma be trained as a smaller garden tree?
Can Lucuma be trained as a smaller garden tree?
Young trees can be shaped with pruning, but Lucuma is naturally a substantial evergreen tree and needs adequate long-term space.
What climate is best for growing Lucuma?
What climate is best for growing Lucuma?
Lucuma prefers warm, frost-free conditions and is better suited to subtropical or tropical growing environments.
Can Lucuma be grown in a large container when young?
Can Lucuma be grown in a large container when young?
Yes. Young plants can be container grown temporarily, but eventually require greater root space as the tree develops.
Why should Lucuma have well-drained soil?
Why should Lucuma have well-drained soil?
Good drainage helps prevent prolonged root-zone saturation and supports healthier root development in this warm-climate fruit tree.
How can a Lucuma tree be incorporated into a home orchard?
How can a Lucuma tree be incorporated into a home orchard?
Place it in a sunny, warm section with enough space for mature growth and compatible conditions for other subtropical fruit trees.