Sapodilla Flower
Manilkara zapota (L.) P. Royen
The sapodilla flower is a small, bell-shaped, cream-colored blossom that appears year-round on the sapodilla tree. These fragrant flowers produce sweet brown fruits and were historically important for chicle, the original chewing gum base.
Sapotaceae (Sapodilla family)
Year-round flowering with main bloom in spring (February-May)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: sugar apple flowers and cherimoya flowers also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
The sapodilla tree has been cultivated since ancient Mayan times, with the name "sapodilla" coming from the Nahuatl word "tzapotl." The tree was historically significant for its latex (chicle), which was the original base for chewing gum and was chewed by Mayans long before modern use. The flowers, though small and inconspicuous, lead to one of the most beloved tropical fruits. In Mexico and Central America, sapodilla represents patience and hidden rewards, as the fruit must ripen fully to reveal its sweet, caramel-like interior. The year-round flowering symbolizes consistency and abundance.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun; young trees benefit from 50% shade initially
Water
Moderate; drought-tolerant once established; young trees need regular watering
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Loamy, Rocky calcareous soils, Fertile
Expert Growing Tips
Flowers appear singly or in small clusters at leaf axils near branch tips
Trees are self-fertile but some cultivars produce more fruit with cross-pollination
Flowers bloom year-round with peak in spring; fruit follows 10 months later
Slow-growing but long-lived tree; grafted trees fruit in 2-4 years
Wind and salt-tolerant; excellent for coastal gardens
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Shade tree in tropical landscapes
- Specimen tree in large gardens
- Fruit tree in home orchards
- Street tree (where falling fruit is not problematic)
- Coastal landscaping (salt-tolerant)
Traditional Uses
- Young fruits boiled for diarrhea treatment (high tannin content)
- Flower and fruit infusion for pulmonary complaints
- Bark decoction used as febrifuge
- Seeds crushed for diuretic properties and to expel stones
- Seed paste applied to venomous stings and bites
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Sapodilla Flower
Do sapodilla trees flower year-round?
Yes, sapodilla trees can flower throughout the year in tropical climates, though the main flowering period is typically in spring from February to May.
How long does it take from sapodilla flower to fruit?
From flowering to ripe fruit, the sapodilla takes approximately 9-10 months. The fruit must fully ripen to become sweet and edible.
What is chicle from sapodilla?
Chicle is the white, gummy latex that the sapodilla tree produces when the bark is tapped. It was the original base ingredient for chewing gum, used by ancient Mayans and commercially until synthetic gums replaced it.
Are sapodilla flowers fragrant?
Sapodilla flowers have a subtle, pleasant fragrance though they are not strongly scented. The small bell-shaped flowers are more valued for the sweet fruit they produce than for their ornamental qualities.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Cherimoya Flower
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