Sweet Santol (Graft) Fruit Plant

Sweet Santol is a cultivated form of santol known for its pleasantly sweet flavor. Santol, also called Kechapi or Lolly Fruit, is an ornamental evergreen tree belonging to the mahogany family (Meliaceae). Its scientific name is Sandoricum koetjape, and it is known by several names including Santol, Sentol, Wild Mangosteen, Red Santol, Cotton Fruit, Sandal, Sayai, and Visayan.

The plant is native to Indochina and Peninsular Malaysia and has been widely introduced to India, Indonesia, the Philippines, Borneo, Mauritius, the Andaman Islands, China, Taiwan, Australia, and parts of Central America and Southern Florida, where it has become naturalized. It is commonly grown in Asian countries, and its fruits are widely available in local markets during the season. The fruit is round, juicy, and about the size of a large apple.

Planting Instructions

Santol is propagated through seeds, air-layering, inarching, or budding onto self-rootstocks. It can be grown in tropical and subtropical regions and performs best in warm climates. The tree prefers well-draining soil, as poorly drained conditions can cause root rot. A mix of soil, sand, and perlite is recommended for proper drainage.

Santol trees thrive in bright light and full sun, ideally receiving around 12 hours of sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruit production. They can also tolerate partial shade with reduced yield.

Maintenance of Plantation

When watering santol trees, the soil should be lightly soaked and allowed to dry slightly before the next watering. Depending on climate and conditions, watering may be needed weekly or more frequently. Overwatering should be avoided, as soggy soil can lead to root decay and plant death.

Fertilization is recommended during watering using a balanced slow-release fertilizer such as 8-3-9 to support healthy growth and fruiting. Multiple feedings may be required during the growing season, following proper dosage instructions to avoid fertilizer burn.

Pests

The Caribbean fruit fly (Anastrepha suspensa) may cause freckle-like marks on the fruit surface but generally does not penetrate the rind or affect internal quality.

Harvesting

Santol trees begin bearing fruit within 5–7 years when grown from seed, and earlier when propagated asexually. Flowering occurs between February and March, and fruits are typically harvested from June to October. Fully ripe fruits turn yellow to golden brown and should be allowed to ripen fully on the tree for best flavor. High-yield varieties may produce up to 2,400 fruits per tree under ideal conditions.