Velvet Apple (Diospyros blancoi) - Seedling - LIVE PLANT

Plant Insights and Care

Velvet Apple (Diospyros blancoi), also known as Mabolo, is a tropical evergreen tree native to the Philippines. It is admired for its large glossy leaves, dense canopy, and distinctive fuzzy-skinned fruits. The tree grows 8–12 meters tall, though it can be maintained smaller with pruning. Its growth habit is upright and elegant, making it suitable for both fruit production and ornamental planting.

Velvet Apple thrives in warm, tropical climates and adapts well to UAE conditions when planted in well-draining, amended soil and given regular deep watering. Young trees benefit from partial afternoon shade during the hottest months (40–45°C), while mature trees tolerate full sun with proper mulching. The tree prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0) enriched with organic matter. UAE sandy soil should be mixed with compost, cocopeat, and a bit of loam to improve nutrient retention.

Consistent irrigation is important — the soil should remain moist but never waterlogged. Mulching is essential for this species in hot climates to protect the root zone and reduce evaporation. Fertilize every 6–8 weeks with a balanced fruit-tree fertilizer; the tree responds well to organic matter and micronutrient supplements. Pruning can be done lightly to shape the canopy or maintain a manageable height.

Key Points:

• Origin: Philippines (Southeast Asia).

• Climate: Tropical; handles high heat with adequate moisture.

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to light partial shade; protect young plants from harsh afternoon sun.

• Watering: Deep, regular watering; do not allow prolonged dryness.

• Soil: Slightly acidic to neutral, organic-rich, well-draining loam.

• Fertilization: Balanced feed every 6–8 weeks; benefits from micronutrients.

• Pruning: Light shaping after the growing season.

• Growth Rate: Moderate; begins fruiting 4 years after planting

Fruit Profile

The Velvet Apple fruit is round to slightly oblong, about 7–10 cm across, with a distinctive velvety, reddish-brown skin — similar to peach fuzz but denser and more tactile. The flesh inside ranges from creamy white to pale yellow and has a soft, custard-like, mildly sweet flavor with a unique floral aroma.

Some fruits emit a strong scent from the skin (not the flesh), but many modern selections have a milder fragrance. The texture is smooth, and the taste is often compared to pear, persimmon, and banana with a faint tropical undertone.

The fruit is eaten fresh, added to desserts, or used in chilled preparations. It contains antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin-rich compounds.

Dive into the facts:

• Taste: Mildly sweet, creamy, and slightly floral; soft custard-like texture.

• Appearance: Reddish-brown velvet skin; pale creamy flesh inside.

• Fun Fact: Despite the fuzzy skin, the inside is extremely smooth and sweet — leading many growers to call it “the tropical persimmon.”