The Ultimate Guide to Growing and Caring for Your Black Mulberry Tree

The Java plum tree, also known as the du da or du da dat, is a delightful fruit-bearing tree native to Malaysia. With its sweet and tangy fruit, this tree has become a popular addition to gardens and farms across the country.

1. What is the Java Plum Tree?

Origin and Significance of the Java Plum Tree

The Java plum tree, with the scientific name Baccaurea sapida

The Java plum tree, scientifically known as Baccaurea sapida, is an enchanting tree native to Malaysia. Over time, it has spread across Indonesia and the Western Pacific, and its cultivation has now reached Vietnam, where it thrives in both the lowlands and mountainous regions. This tree produces delicious fruit with economic significance, contributing to the income of many local farmers.

Characteristics and Classification of the Java Plum Tree

The Java plum tree is a small deciduous tree, typically growing to a height of 16-20 meters and a trunk diameter of up to 35 centimeters. Its leaves are simple, measuring around 10-20 centimeters in length, and have a vibrant green color. The tree bears white flowers with yellow stamens, which bloom in large clusters during January.

The Java plum tree bears fruit in two varieties: golden and crimson

From the age of four years onwards, the Java plum tree begins to bear fruit. Depending on the variety, the fruit can be golden or crimson, growing in long clusters that can reach 10-20 centimeters in length. The taste is a delightful combination of sweet and mildly sour. The vibrant color and attractive shape of the clusters make Java plum fruit a popular choice for religious offerings and decorations.

The striking crimson Java plum fruit

Based on the fruit color, the Java plum tree can be classified into two main types: the golden Java plum and the crimson Java plum. The golden variety tends to be sweeter, while the crimson Java plum is slightly more sour but is often preferred for its eye-catching color in religious and decorative settings.

2. Benefits of the Java Plum Tree

The Java plum tree offers a range of benefits, from delicious fruit to medicinal uses

The Java plum tree is prized for its delicious, sweet, and tangy fruit, which has significant economic value and contributes to the income of local farmers. Additionally, the seeds of the Java plum are known to have digestive benefits, aiding in stimulating the digestive system. The tree is also cultivated for its shady canopy, making it ideal for landscaping and providing shade in gardens and urban areas. Furthermore, the bark of the tree has medicinal properties and is used to treat coughs, while the leaves are effective in treating allergies and skin ailments.

3. How to Grow and Care for the Java Plum Tree

Growing the Java Plum Tree at Home

When selecting Java plum tree saplings for planting, it is essential to source them from reputable nurseries to ensure their quality. The ideal time to plant the Java plum tree is at the start of the rainy season, typically from May to July, to provide the young tree with ample water. While the tree can adapt to various soil types, it thrives best in nutrient-rich loamy soil with added compost and sterilized soil.

Growing the Java plum tree in your garden

Here is a step-by-step guide to planting the Java plum tree:

Step 1 Select healthy saplings from a reputable source.

Step 2 Dig a hole with a diameter of 50 centimeters and a depth of 15 centimeters.

Step 3 Add compost and sterilize the soil before planting.

Step 4 Plant the tree and water it gently after planting.

Caring for the Java Plum Tree

The Java plum tree requires ample water during its early years and when the fruit is nearing maturity. It is crucial to maintain consistent watering during the first three years to ensure the tree’s healthy growth.

Ensure that your Java plum tree receives sufficient water

Additionally, regular weeding is essential to keep the tree healthy. Providing shade for the tree, especially during its early years, is beneficial as it thrives best in partial shade and does not tolerate full sun well.

Create a shaded environment for your young Java plum tree

Fertilization is a crucial aspect of caring for the Java plum tree. Depending on the tree’s age and stage of growth, different types and amounts of fertilizer should be used. During the first year, apply NPK fertilizer once a month, using approximately 10 grams per tree. In the second year, increase the amount to 100-200 grams per tree per application, and in the third year, fertilize every three months with 200-300 grams per tree. Once the tree is mature, you can also add foliage fertilizer annually.

Notes on Growing and Caring for the Java Plum Tree

Pay attention to potential pest problems and take preventive measures

The Java plum tree can be susceptible to pests, so it is important to regularly inspect the tree for any signs of infestation and take immediate action by spraying appropriate pesticides. You can also spray the tree periodically or when new leaves emerge to prevent pest damage and ensure the tree’s healthy growth.

4. A Visual Treat: 10+ Beautiful Images of the Java Plum Tree

A captivating view of the Java plum tree from below

The Java plum tree basking in the sunlight

The vibrant crimson Java plum fruit

Java plum fruit arranged in a large cluster

Crimson Java plum fruit nearing ripeness

Golden Java plum fruit with a round shape

Golden Java plum fruit still on the tree

Juicy and ripe Java plum fruit

A platter filled with golden Java plum fruit

A golden Java plum tree laden with fruit

We hope you enjoyed learning about the Java plum tree and its cultivation. Thank you for reading, and we wish you good health and happy gardening!