Cat’s Eye Fruit

The Cat’s Eye Fruit plant, also known as Ceylon Oak, Oxeye, or Mammee, is a tropical tree that belongs to the Sapotaceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia and is known for its unique and exotic fruit that resembles the eye of a cat. Here is a more detailed description of the Cat’s Eye Fruit plant:

Tree Description: The Cat’s Eye Fruit plant is a medium to large-sized tree that can grow up to 50-80 feet (15-24 meters) in height, with a dense and symmetrical crown. The tree has a straight trunk with a smooth, grayish-brown bark that may develop shallow fissures with age. The leaves are simple, glossy, and leathery, with an elliptical to obovate shape, and can grow up to 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) in length. The leaves are dark green on the upper surface and lighter green on the underside, with prominent veins.

Flower Description: The Cat’s Eye Fruit plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are usually greenish-yellow or cream in color. The flowers are usually solitary or arranged in small clusters, and are usually fragrant, attracting pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and other insects. The flowers are followed by the development of the fruit.

Fruit Description: The highlight of the Cat’s Eye Fruit plant is its unique fruit, which resembles the eye of a cat. The fruit is large, round or oval, and can grow up to 3-5 inches (7-12 cm) in diameter. The fruit has a thick, tough rind that is usually green when immature and turns yellow or orange when ripe. The rind is covered with small, warty protuberances, giving it a rough texture.

When the fruit is cut open, it reveals a firm, yellow to orange-colored flesh that is sweet and aromatic, with a flavor reminiscent of a mix between a mango and a melon. The fruit typically contains a single large seed, which is usually surrounded by a gelatinous, translucent pulp that resembles the “eye” of the fruit, giving it its distinctive name.

Caring for Cat’s Eye Fruit plant: The Cat’s Eye Fruit plant is a tropical tree that requires warm and humid conditions to thrive. Here are some care tips for Cat’s Eye Fruit plant:

1. Climate: Cat’s Eye Fruit plant thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, with temperatures ranging from 68-86°F (20-30°C). It is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from cold temperatures.
2. Light: Cat’s Eye Fruit plant prefers full sun to partial shade, with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. It can tolerate some shade, but may not fruit as prolifically.
3. Water: Cat’s Eye Fruit plant prefers well-draining soil and requires regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during the flowering and fruiting season. Avoid waterlogging, as it can cause root rot.
4. Fertilizer: Cat’s Eye Fruit plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced, organic or slow-release fertilizer during the growing season. Follow the package instructions for application rates and frequency.
5. Pruning: Cat’s Eye Fruit plant may require minimal pruning to maintain its shape and remove dead or diseased branches. Prune during the dormant season to avoid excessive sap flow.
6. Pests and diseases: Cat’s Eye Fruit plant can be susceptible to pests such as fruit flies, scales, and mites, as well as diseases such as anthracnose and powdery mildew. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation or disease and treat promptly with appropriate pesticides or fung