Miracle fruit (Thaumatococcus daniellii)

Also known as: Miracle Berry, Katemfe

Thaumatococcus daniellii is grown for its thaumatin, a natural sweetener. This fast-growing African plant is recognizable by its triangular, red fruits.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Miracle fruit

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

3 m to 3.5 m

Spread

2 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2 cm

Flower Color

White Purple

Images of Miracle fruit

Quickly Identify Miracle fruit

The plant is identified by its large, lush green leaves which can grow up to 1 meter in length. It also has inconspicuous, purple flowers and produces small, reddish-brown fruits. These fruits contain a single large seed.

Scientific Classification of Miracle fruit

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Monocotyledons

Order

Zingiberales

Family

Arrowroot

Genus

Thaumatococcus

Species

Miracle fruit

Planting and Growing of Miracle fruit

Care Difficulty

Hard

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

70-85℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Miracle fruit?

Thaumatococcus daniellii roots are adapted to consistently moist conditions. Each watering session should deliver approximately 500ml of water, enough to moisten the soil evenly without waterlogging. Ensure that the water seeps deep into the root zone, but avoid leaving the surface too wet, as it might encourage fungal growth.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Miracle fruit? ›

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

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Miracle fruit? ›

How to save an overwatered Miracle fruit? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Miracle fruit?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: 2 to 4 hours

Thaumatococcus daniellii requires partial sun to full shade for thriving growth. Ideal light ensures healthy foliage, robust structure, and enhances its ornamental appeal.

What is the best light condition for Thaumatococcus daniellii? ›

How can you achieve ideal lighting for Thaumatococcus daniellii? ›

What benefits does ideal lighting bring to Thaumatococcus daniellii? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Miracle fruit?

Ideal Temperature: 70 ~ 85℉

What is the ideal temperature range for cultivating Thaumatococcus daniellii? The ideal temperature range for cultivating this plant is between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. This range allows the plant to thrive and achieve its full potential in terms of growth and development, as it aligns well with its natural habitat conditions.

What Soil is Best for Miracle fruit?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam, Peat soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Thaumatococcus daniellii thrives in soils that are rich in organic matter. This nutrient-rich environment supports healthy growth and enhances the plant's ability to produce its useful extractives. This plant requires well-drained soil to prevent root rot. Adequate drainage ensures that the water does not pool around the roots, maintaining a healthy environment for growth. Thaumatococcus daniellii benefits from soil that can retain moisture without becoming waterlogged. This balanced moisture retention supports the plant's tropical origins and ensures vigorous growth.

How to Fertilize Miracle fruit?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Thaumatococcus daniellii, it's essential to carefully measure the fertilizer amount. Use about 2 teaspoons of balanced NPK liquid fertilizer per gallon of water. For slow-release pellets, 2 tablespoons distributed around the base is ideal per application.

How to Prune Miracle fruit?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by locating any leaves that are yellowing or brown, which indicate they are dead or dying. Cut these off as close to their base as possible to encourage new leaf growth. Prune excess leaves that are crowding the plant or extending too far beyond its natural shape. Cut these back to just above a node where new leaves can sprout. When trimming, do not remove more than one-third of the plant at a time. Over-pruning can stress the plant and inhibit its growth. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Miracle fruit plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Late spring

Collect mature seeds from the plant, and soak them in water overnight to enhance germination. This step ensures the outer coating of the seeds softens, promoting successful sprouting.

Select healthy shoots that are free from disease and pests. Cuttings should be approximately 10-15 cm long and taken just below a node, as this area is more prone to root development.

When propagating by division, carefully dig up the plant and divide the rhizomes. Each section should have at least one growing bud to ensure successful new growth.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Miracle fruit plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Thaumatococcus daniellii needs repotting when roots begin poking out from the drainage holes or when you notice slowed growth. Ideally, do this in spring or summer for best acclimatization.

Select a pot that is a couple of inches larger in diameter than the current one to allow space for growth. Ensure it has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which is detrimental to root health.

Choose a rich, well-draining soil mix with organic matter to provide nutrients and prevent compaction. This will ensure that the roots receive adequate oxygen and drainage.