Black Sapote Tree 15G

Black Sapote Tree – Diospyros digyna (15 Gallon Pot) available in Jupiter, FL.

Bring home a tropical rarity with this 15-gallon Black Sapote Tree, Diospyros digyna, known as the “chocolate pudding fruit” for its rich, dark, sweet pulp that resembles custard. Native to Central America and a cousin of the persimmon, Black Sapote is a delicious and unique addition to any South Florida edible garden.

This evergreen fruit tree belongs to the Ebenaceae family and the Dicotyledonae class. It offers ornamental beauty year-round with glossy green foliage, while producing fruit in the cooler months—typically November through February in South Florida.

Key Features:

• Botanical Name: Diospyros digyna

• Common Name: Black Sapote

• Family: Ebenaceae

• Class: Dicotyledonae

• Pot Size: 15 Gallon

• Mature Height: 20–40 feet (prune to maintain size)

• USDA Zones: 10–11 (perfect for South Florida)

• Fruit Ripening: Late fall through winter

Sunlight Needs:
Full sun (6–8+ hours daily) is essential for fruit production and healthy canopy growth.

Watering:
Water deeply once or twice per week during the dry season. Keep soil moist but never soggy. Once established, Black Sapote is moderately drought-tolerant but will produce more fruit with consistent moisture.

Soil Requirements:
Thrives in well-drained, sandy or loamy soils with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. Avoid heavy clay unless raised beds or mounds are used to improve drainage.

Fertilization:
Apply a balanced fruit tree fertilizer 3–4 times per year. Young trees benefit from extra phosphorus and potassium during the fruiting season. Mulch with compost or leaf mold to enhance soil health and moisture retention.

Pest & Disease Tips:
Generally pest-resistant, but scale or whitefly may occasionally appear. Treat organically with neem oil or horticultural soap. Root rot can be a concern in poorly drained areas.

Planting Tips:
Transplant during spring or fall. Choose a sunny, protected location. Allow space for spreading branches. Pairs beautifully with tropical companions like bananas, papayas, and pineapples.

Special Notes for South Florida Gardeners:

• Fruit must ripen off the tree; pick when olive green and slightly soft, then allow to fully ripen at room temperature.

• Black Sapote has a mild, sweet flavor often compared to chocolate pudding—excellent in smoothies, baking, or eaten fresh with citrus.

• Tolerates occasional flooding and salt exposure, making it ideal for coastal gardens.

• Ideal for permaculture, edible food forests, or low-maintenance tropical gardens.