In the world of exotic fruit trees, the born (Byrsonima crassifolia), also known as nanche, occupies a special place for its intensely juicy fruits. aroma y bittersweetAlthough it is still relatively unknown in Europe, in Mexico and several countries in Central and South America, its cultivation and consumption are very common, especially in regions such as Guerrero, Nayarit and Michoacán.
What is nance and why is it so valued?
The nance is a tropical drupe It looks like a small, round plum with smooth skin. As it ripens, its color varies from yellow to deep orange. It's important to note that it has a hard pit in its center, so caution should be exercised when eating it.
It is characterized by a powerful perfume or with a taste that mixes sweet and sour, with slightly resinous notes and juicy pulp. The harvesting of its fruits is seasonal, concentrating between april and june, which makes them even more appreciated.
The nutritional properties of nance have attracted attention beyond its native lands. It provides:
- Vitamins C, E and B complex, essential for the immune system and metabolism.
- Minerals such as iron, phosphorus, potassium and magnesium, important for energy and muscle function.
- Fiber, which improves digestion and regulates intestinal transit.
- Powerful antioxidants, which protect cells from free radical damage.
Gastronomic and medicinal uses of nance
Nance is an extremely versatile fruit in Latin American cuisine. It is consumed as fresh fruit, alone or in smoothies and shakes, accompanying other fruits and vegetables.
Especially in Mexico, recipes of jams, compotes y preserves that take advantage of the unique flavor of nance. It is commonly used as a base for tepache (a traditional fermented beverage) and in home fermentations. In some regions, the fruits are used to make sweets, ice creams, artisanal liqueurs, and seasoned sauces.
From the perspective of traditional medicine, nance is attributed diuretic effects y anti-inflammatory properties, used in home remedies for digestive and urinary problems. Furthermore, thanks to its antioxidant content, it is considered beneficial for strengthening the immune system and protecting cells.
The Nance tree: Botanical and ecological characteristics
The nance tree, Byrsonima crassifolia, is a tropical species that can reach heights between nine and twenty meters, depending on the environmental conditions. It presents simple, alternate, and elliptical leaves of an intense green color, and its small yellow flowers are grouped in clusters, making the flowering more striking.
An key evolutionary adaptation of the nance is its pollination by cleistogamy, a process in which flowers self-pollinate before opening. This allows them to ensure their offspring without depending on the wind or pollinators, and is essential for their success in variable habitats.
Production and performance: A single copy can offer between two thousand and four thousand fruits by harvest. Harvesting is done by hand, ensuring the integrity of the fruit.
Natural habitats: The tree grows wild in dry forests, savannas and disturbed areas from tropical America, adapting well to different soils and climatic conditions.
Beyond the fruit, the wood Nance is highly valued for its hardness and durability, and is used in the manufacture of furniture, tools, and handicrafts. Its dense, attractive foliage makes it an excellent choice for gardens and parks.
Can you grow nance at home or in a pot?
Nance is perfectly suitable for growing in pots., making it an ideal alternative for those with limited space or who live in urban areas. Although it can grow considerably in nature, its growth is controlled and it can be kept compact in a pot.
- Suitable pot: A minimum capacity of 40 liters is recommended, preferably made of clay or ceramic, which promotes oxygenation and humidity stability.
- Substratum: It's best to choose an aerated and fertile mix, rich in organic matter. A special substrate for fruit trees, or a combination of garden soil, compost, and perlite, is ideal.
- Sewer system: It is essential to place a layer of stones or expanded clay at the base, preventing waterlogging and potential root problems.
- Location: The plant needs between 6 and 8 hours of direct sun daily. A large, sunny, and wind-protected space is perfect.
With proper care, pot-grown nance can begin to bear fruit between 3 and 5 years after planting, depending on management and climate.
Step by step to grow nance at home
- Seed preparation: Remove the seeds from the ripe fruit and clean them under running water to remove the pulp. Let them dry between 2 to 3 days in a cool, dry place.
- Cold stratification: Simulate the winter period by storing the dry seeds in a bag with wet sand or wrapped in moistened paper, and place them in the refrigerator for 4 to 6 weeks.
- Sowing: Plant the seeds in a pot with light, loose soil, 1-2 cm deep. Keep the humidity even (not overwatered) and place the pot in a warm, sunny spot.
- Seedling transplant: When the sprouts reach 5 cm, transplant them to a larger pot or to the garden, ensuring a fertile substrate and good drainage to promote their development.
Essential care of the nance tree
- Location: Nance requires maximum sun exposure, which results in better flowering and fruiting.
- Floor type: It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils, with good drainage and abundant organic matter.
- Irrigation: It is advisable to water moderately and frequently, avoiding puddles and prolonged droughts.
- Temperature: It doesn't tolerate frost. In temperate climates, it can be grown outdoors as long as winters are mild.
- Pruning: It's necessary to shape the foliage, allow light to enter, and stimulate flower and fruit production. Pruning healthily prevents diseases and pests.
- Harvest: The fruit ripens gradually; it's recommended to pick it when its color is deep yellow and ripe to the touch.
- Spread: It can be propagated by well-prepared seeds, well-rooted cuttings or young seedlings.
Additional tips and interesting facts about growing nance
- Advantages of stratification: Simulating winter in the refrigerator helps break seed dormancy, optimizing germination rates.
- Pots in cold climates: If your region experiences cold winters, move the pot to a well-lit indoor space during the colder months to prevent damage from low temperatures.
- Fertilization: During spring and summer, apply organic or specific fertilizer for fruit trees every 4-6 weeks to enhance growth and flowering.
- Plagues and diseases: Although Nance is resistant, it is important to monitor for the presence of aphids, mealybugs, and fungi, acting promptly with organic products if necessary.
