Phenological studies of matoa (Pometia pinnata) flowering and fruit development

Matoa (Pometia pinnata J.R. Forst. & G. Forst.) is an underutilized fruit species native to Indonesia, primarily found in the lowland subtropical and tropical regions of the Asia-Pacific. Despite its potential as a source of fresh fruit, processed products, and bioactive compounds such as antioxidants and antimicrobials, limited research has been conducted on its phenology. This study aimed to investigate the flowering and fruit development of matoa at the Mekarsari Fruit Garden in Cileungsi, Bogor, to provide essential data for its cultivation and breeding. The generative cycle of matoa begins with floral initiation at the onset of the dry season (late June to early July), followed by full bloom in September. The panicle flowers, ranging from 8 to 30 cm in length, exhibit 4 to 16 flower branches in monopodial inflorescences. The average duration from generative bud emergence to blooming is 56 days, and ovary formation occurs approximately 9 to 12 days after anthesis. The fruit development period, from anthesis to maturity, lasts around 12 weeks, with an average fruit set rate of 2.51%. This phenological data provides crucial insights into matoa’s reproductive cycle, essential for improving cultivation practices and exploring its agricultural potential.