Family: Sapotaceae

There are around 60 species in this genus of trees native to tropical and subtropical areas of Malaysia, northern Australia, New Zealand and Polynesia. The timber from these reasonably tall trees is used for carving and fine woodwork. The New Zealand species, P. novo zelandica, is probably the most suitable for growing as an ornamental. This genus is unlikely to be available outside the countries of origin.

Species

P. australis, black apple, grows to over 30 m (100 ft) in its rainforest habitat. It has glossy leaves, clusters of small, white flowers, and black plum-like fruit. This tree yields a milky sap.

P. laurifolia grows into a tall tree in its natural, rainforest habitat. It has mottled, scented bark, shiny leaves and plum-like fruits.

P. novo zelandica, tawapou, is a handsome specimen tree, to 5 m (16 ft), with glossy, dark green leaves, white flowers and large woody seeds.

Cultivation

Outside the tropics or subtropics, grow in a warm greenhouse or conservatory, as planchonellas cannot tolerate frost. Grow in well drained, soil-based compost. Outdoors grow in well drained, loamy, humus-rich soil in a warm, sunny, sheltered position. Propagate from ripe seed, from cuttings, or by layering.

Climate

Zone 10 to tropical.