Rukam (Flacourtia rukam)

Also known as: Rukam, Indian Prune

The Rukam tree (*Flacourtia rukam*), known for its small, edible purplish fruits often referred to as Indian prunes, can also be propagated using root suckers. These root suckers, which naturally sprout near the base of the tree, can be carefully dug up and replanted to grow new trees, offering an effective alternative to seed propagation.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Rukam

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

5 m to 15 m

Spread

4-6 meters

Leaf Color

Dark green

Flower Size

5-10 millimeters

Flower Color

White

Images of Rukam

Quickly Identify Rukam

Identify Flacourtia rukam by its dark green, ovate leaves, serrated edges, small white to greenish flowers, and round reddish-purple fruits.

Scientific Classification of Rukam

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Malpighiales

Family

Willow

Genus

Flacourtia

Species

Rukam

Planting and Growing of Rukam

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-6 hours

Ideal Temperature

75-86℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

5.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Ceramic, Plastic

How to Water Rukam?

Flacourtia rukam needs a generous supply of water without oversaturation. Aim for around 500 ml each time, ensuring the soil feels moist but not waterlogged. The key is to allow excess water to drain out to prevent root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Rukam? ›

What should I do if my Rukam is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Rukam? ›

How to save an overwatered Rukam? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Rukam?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4-6 hours daily

Flacourtia rukam prefers partial sunlight, ideally accruing 4 to 6 hours of light daily. Ensuring such light exposure aids in maintaining healthy leaf coloration, robust plant structure, and adequate flowering and fruiting.

How much light does Flacourtia rukam need? ›

How can I ensure Flacourtia rukam receives ideal sunlight? ›

What are the benefits of providing ideal sunlight to Flacourtia rukam? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Rukam?

Ideal Temperature: 75 ~ 86℉

The ideal temperature range for Flacourtia rukam is between 75°F and 86°F. This temperature helps ensure proper growth and fruit development, as it supports optimal physiological processes. Maintaining this range is vital for preventing stress-related issues and maximizing yield.

What Soil is Best for Rukam?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 5.5 ~ 7.5

Flacourtia rukam thrives in well-drained soils that prevent waterlogging, which can damage roots. This condition ensures healthy root aeration, promoting robust growth and fruit production. The plant benefits from soils rich in organic matter, which provides essential nutrients. This enhance its ability to develop fully and produce an abundant yield. A moderate moisture retention capacity is ideal to avoid excessive dryness and support consistent water availability, crucial for sustaining the plant's lush foliage.

How to Fertilize Rukam?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Flacourtia rukam, ensure that the fertilizer is balanced and includes essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Use about 100 grams of granular fertilizer per plant when applying solid fertilizers, and for liquid fertilizers, use a diluted solution at one-tenth strength to avoid root burn, making sure the soil is moist prior application.

How to Prune Rukam?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

For young Flacourtia rukam plants, it's crucial to establish a strong framework early on. Trim back weak or crossing branches to promote a healthy, open structure. This will allow light to penetrate the interior, encouraging even growth and reducing the risk of disease. For mature Flacourtia rukam, focus on removing dead or damaged wood first. Then, prune to maintain shape and control size. It's generally a good idea to thin the canopy slightly to improve air circulation, which can help prevent fungal issues. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Rukam plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Late spring, Summer

Collect ripe fruits from the Flacourtia rukam, remove seeds and clean them thoroughly. Soak in water overnight to help soften the seed coat and improve germination rates.

Prepare a mix consisting of equal parts of peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite. This mix ensures good drainage and retains enough moisture for new growth.

Select healthy, semi-hardwood branches and cut 6-8 inch sections. Remove leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the base in rooting hormone before planting.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Rukam plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Look for signs like roots growing out of the drainage holes, or when the growth seems stunted. It's best to repot in the growing seasons, spring or summer, when the plant can recover quickly.

Choose a pot with good drainage and slightly larger than the current one. A larger pot reduces root bound issues and encourages healthier growth.

Opt for well-draining soil rich in organic matter. This soil type prevents waterlogging and provides necessary nutrients that aid the plant's robust growth.