Scientific name: Spondias dulcis

POWO Status: Tree

IUCN Red List threat level: Least Concern

GPS Location: 17° 42′ 59.21″ N, 64° 49′ 40.51″ W

Observations:

Phenological Markers – Golden Apple (Spondias dulcis)

1. Leaf Behavior
Golden Apple is deciduous, shedding its leaves during the dry season, especially from January to March in St. Croix.

• Leaves are pinnately compound, with 9–25 leaflets per leaf.
• Leaf drop may be partial or complete, often followed by rapid new growth in spring.

Observation Tips:

• Track canopy thinning and full leaf drop in early dry season.
• Watch for new flushes of soft green leaves by March–April, sometimes coinciding with flowering.

2. Flowering
The tree produces small, white to yellowish flowers in long, slender, hanging panicles.

• Flowering typically occurs just after or during leaf flush, usually March to May.
• Flowers are fragrant and abundant, and pollinated by bees and other small insects.

Observation Tips:

• Monitor for emergence of flower panicles near branch tips.
• Record flower density, peak bloom, and insect activity.

3. Fruiting
The fruit is an oval, green drupe that ripens to golden-yellow. It has a fibrous interior and central stone.

• Fruiting follows flowering and typically peaks from June to September.
• Fruits are edible when green (tart) or ripe (sweet and soft).

Observation Tips:

• Track fruit development and ripening, especially color changes.
• Note fruit drop, which may increase after rains or winds.
• Observe animal activity, such as birds or humans harvesting fruit.

4. Growth Habit
Golden Apple grows quickly, forming a broad, rounded canopy.

• Branches are often upright and spreading, and lower limbs may bear fruit, making it ideal for community harvest.

5. Seasonal Pattern (St. Croix)

• Jan–Mar: Leaf drop
• Mar–May: Leaf flush and flowering
• Jun–Sep: Fruit development and ripening
• Oct–Dec: Canopy regrowth and occasional flowering