About Diospyros blancoi A.DC.
Diospyros blancoi A.DC. (synonym Diospyros discolor) is commonly known as velvet apple, velvet persimmon, kamagong, or mabolo tree. It is a tree belonging to the genus Diospyros, a group that includes ebony trees and persimmons. This species produces edible fruits covered in a fine, velvety, fur-like reddish-brown layer. The fruit has soft, creamy pink flesh, and its taste and aroma are comparable to that of peaches. It is native to the Philippines, as well as eastern and southern Taiwan, and is widely distributed across its native range. It has also been introduced to other tropical regions, including other parts of Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, South Asia, the Caribbean, and Florida in the United States. This is a dioecious tropical tree that grows well in a wide range of soil types, at elevations from sea level up to 750 metres (2,400 ft) above sea level. Seed-bearing trees are typically spaced 10–15 metres (30–45 ft) apart, while other specimens can be spaced 7.5–9 metres (25–30 ft) apart. The tree requires evenly distributed rainfall throughout the year. Trees grown from seed usually take 6 or 7 years to produce fruit, while trees propagated from cuttings produce fruit in 3 or 4 years. It is a very productive tree. Fruits of this species vary greatly in shape, color, hairiness, and taste, which indicates that the plant has a high degree of genetic variation. Seedless cultivars exist, and they are highly favored, because the large seeds of standard varieties take up a considerable volume of the fruit.
