Native & adapted

Noni

Morinda citrifolia

Also known as Indian mulberry · Cheese fruit · Nhàu

A small tropical tree with large glossy leaves and lumpy fruit used mostly for juice. It fruits young and nearly year-round in warm conditions.

EdibleFruitingContainer friendlyEvergreenFrost tender

Landscape layersLower canopy

Mature size10–15 ft tall and 6–10 ft wide

Climate fitUrban core · USDA 9b–10a

Plant spacing8–10 ft from other trees

FrostDamaged at 32°F.

Special categoriesEDIBLE

Hardiness guidanceUSDA 10b–11; damaged near 32°F

Winter chillNone

Typical harvestYear-round in warm months; pick when the fruit turns pale and translucent.

Before you plant

These conditions determine whether it will thrive.

Soil chemistry

Tolerates many soils, including somewhat salty ground.

Required microclimatePlacement is part of the growing system.

Sheltered courtyard or a large container moved under cover in winter.

Right plant, right place

Will Noni grow at your Arizona property?

Fruits within a year or two. Place it away from seating areas because of the smell of ripe fruit.

Best regional fit: Urban core · USDA 9b–10a.

Light

Sun exposure

Morning sun with afternoon shade from June through September, such as the east side of a house or under a taller nurse tree. Protect from frost on winter nights.

Water

Irrigation

Moderate and steady.

Fruit set

Pollination

Self-fertile.

Harvest

How to use it

Mostly juiced or fermented. Ripe fruit has a strong, cheese-like smell.

Planting & stewardship

How to help Noni thrive

1
Shade from afternoon sun in summer.
2
Protect on every frost night.
3
Feed lightly through the warm season.
4
Pick fruit before it drops and smells.

Read the horticultural reference ↗