Purple Caimito, Star Apple (Chrysophyllum cainito)

The Caimito, or Star Apple, is a tropical evergreen fruiting tree/shrub in the Sapotaceae family, related to Sapodillas, Canistels and Miracle Berries. Native to South and Central America’s lowland jungles, this gorgeous canopy of weeping branches bears a somewhat-leathery, glossy green top and golden-brown underside. 

Their tiny greenish purple flower clusters burst into fruits bearing purple or green exteriors and a star-like interior, when cut in half. Cut the mature fruit’s latex skin exterior to reveal a milky, gelatinous interior, bearing a sweet flavor reminiscent of abiu. Fruits will not fall on their own and must be harvested by clipping from the tree. Harvest when the fruit’s appearance is dull-colored, soft and slightly wrinkled. You can eat it out of hand or spoon the pulp into a sorbet or smoothie! Hard to find in a store, these landscaping favorites make for great, nutritious additions to any food forest fan!