Red Manjack
Scientific name: Cordia collococca
IUCN Red List threat level: Least Concern
GPS Location: 17° 42′ 58.31″ N, 64° 49′ 46.2″ W
Observations:
Phenological Markers – Red Manjack (Cordia collococca)
Overview
Cordia collococca, also known as Bush Cordia or Mango Berry, is a small to medium-sized tree native to the Caribbean and tropical regions of Central America. This species is part of the Boraginaceae family, which includes plants that are typically characterized by small flowers and fruiting habits. Cordia collococca is known for its broad, glossy leaves, and clustered white flowers, followed by the small, round mango-like fruit that is edible but not widely cultivated.
This tree is commonly found in tropical forests, often in disturbed or secondary growth areas. It provides habitat for wildlife and is sometimes used in traditional herbal medicine in its native regions. While not a major commercial crop, its fruits are important for local ecosystems and the birds and insects that rely on them.
Scientific Classification
- Family: Boraginaceae
- Genus: Cordia
- Species: C. collococca
- Common Names: Bush Cordia, Mango Berry
Physical Description
- Height: Typically grows 2–4 meters (6–13 feet) tall as a small tree or large shrub, with a dense, bushy habit.
- Leaves: Broad, ovate, and glossy with a leathery texture. The leaves are dark green and arranged alternately along the branches. They have prominent veins and are somewhat waxy to the touch.
- Flowers: Small, white, funnel-shaped flowers that are clustered in cymes. The flowers are fragrant, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
- Fruits: The tree produces small, round fruits, similar in size to a mango, with a smooth, slightly wrinkled skin that ripens from green to yellow or orange. The fruit is edible but has a mild, somewhat bland flavor. It is often consumed in local areas and used in traditional remedies.
- Bark: The bark is relatively smooth and light brown or grayish in color, with a somewhat papery texture.
Habitat and Distribution
Cordia collococca is native to tropical regions of Central America and the Caribbean, where it grows in secondary forests, mangroves, and along coastal areas. The species is typically found in disturbed habitats, such as roadsides and abandoned agricultural fields, and is often associated with tropical forest margins.
It thrives in moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate periodic flooding but prefers areas with good sunlight and warmth. While not as widely cultivated as other fruit trees, it has found use in reforestation projects and habitat restoration due to its fast growth and adaptability.
Ecological Role
- Pollinator Support: The small, fragrant flowers are a good source of nectar for bees and butterflies.
- Fruit Dispersal: The small, fleshy fruits are consumed by birds and small mammals, which help disperse the seeds across the landscape.
- Habitat: The dense foliage of the Bush Cordia provides shelter for various small animals and insects, contributing to biodiversity in tropical habitats.
- Soil Stabilization: Its root system helps to stabilize soil in disturbed areas, making it useful for reforestation and erosion control efforts.
Phenological Markers
| Phenological Phase | Observation Notes |
|---|---|
| Leaf Flush | New leaves emerge soft and light green, followed by a rapid growth spurt in the rainy season. This typically happens after rainfall. |
| Full Foliage | The tree retains its leaves year-round, though it may drop some in dry seasons or during periods of water stress. Leaves are glossy and dark green. |
| Leaf Drop | Minimal leaf drop, but may occur during extreme drought conditions or at the end of a dry season. |
| Flower Budding | Small buds form at the branch tips. This typically occurs during the early rainy season or in response to moisture availability. |
| Flowering | C. collococca typically flowers during the wet season, with white, funnel-shaped flowers blooming in late spring to early summer. |
| Fruit Set | After flowering, small fruits begin to develop. The fruits mature over 4-6 weeks, usually from late summer to fall. |
| Fruit Maturity | The fruits ripen from green to yellow or orange and are typically ready for harvest in late summer or early fall. |
| Seed Dispersal | Fruits are eaten by birds or small mammals, aiding in seed dispersal. The seeds can be dispersed locally, often by animals or gravity. |
Growing Conditions
- Light: Prefers full sun or partial shade. It grows well in areas with moderate sunlight and can tolerate some shade in tropical forests.
- Soil: Grows best in well-drained, slightly acidic soils, though it can tolerate a variety of soil types. It thrives in loamy or sandy soils.
- Watering: This plant prefers moderate moisture but is somewhat drought-tolerant once established. It benefits from regular rainfall or irrigation during dry periods.
- Temperature: Prefers tropical and subtropical temperatures, with an ideal range of 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Sensitive to frost and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Propagation
- Seeds: The most common method of propagation is by seed. Seeds should be cleaned and planted in well-draining soil. Germination typically occurs within 2–4 weeks.
- Cuttings: Rooting from cuttings is possible, especially with semi-hardwood cuttings. This method can be used to propagate mature plants or desired cultivars.
Conservation Status
Cordia collococca is not currently listed as threatened or endangered. However, it could be vulnerable in areas where its natural habitat is being cleared for agriculture or urbanization. Its role in habitat restoration and soil stabilization makes it an important species for ecological projects.
Phenology Monitoring Notes
- Flowering and fruiting: Track the timing of flowering relative to rainfall patterns and temperature fluctuations.
- Wildlife observations: Document any pollinators, especially bees and butterflies, during the flowering phase.
- Fruit set and ripening: Track the fruit maturation and the timing of seed dispersal, which could vary with local environmental factors.
- Leaf condition: Monitor the leaf health and leaf drop, particularly in response to drought or cold temperatures.
Conclusion
Cordia collococca (Bush Cordia) is a versatile and resilient tropical tree that plays an important role in local ecosystems. Its beautiful white flowers and mango-like fruits are valuable for pollinators and wildlife, while its fast growth and adaptability make it a useful species for habitat restoration. By monitoring its phenological phases, researchers can gain valuable insights into how this species responds to changes in climate and environment, particularly in tropical ecosystems.