Vasconcellea candicans
Care, watering, light and tips for Vasconcellea candicans on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Caricaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Vasconcellea candicans
The Mito (Vasconcellea candicans) is a shrub or small fruit tree native to the Andes, known for its edible, sweet, and aromatic fruits. It features large, lobed leaves and can grow several meters tall. It is ideal for fruit orchards in temperate climates or as an exotic ornamental plant in protected gardens.
Native range
Andes of Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador
Care tips
It requires full sun exposure for good fruiting and protection from frost, especially in its early years. Watering should be regular, keeping the substrate moist but not waterlogged, and it needs good drainage. It prefers rich, well-aerated soils with plenty of organic matter. A common mistake is the lack of winter protection, which can severely damage the plant.
How to save a dying Vasconcellea candicans
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or whitish leaves, falling; stunted growth. Stem base rot may be present.
- First aid
- Check drainage, remove damaged leaves. Reduce watering. If rot, cut and consider cuttings.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and poor drainage, causing root rot. Also extreme cold and lack of light.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if rot is not too advanced and watering/light conditions are corrected.