Star Apple

STAR APPLES

Chrysophyllum cainito

aka Purple Caimito

Star Apples are part of the Sapotaceae family of plants which includes mamey sapote, green sapote, abiu, and canistel.

While originally from the West Indies and Central America, star apples are now commonly found throughout the Caribbean, northern South America, Australia, and parts of SE Asia and Africa as well.

GROWTH HABIT:

Star Apples grow 25-100' depending on soil conditions and weather. Branches have a weeping growth habit.

Star apple trees like space: 25' from other trees is needed if they are left untrimmed.

Young trees are intolerant of frost, though mature trees may survive down to 24-25 degrees. Leaf damage occurs at 27-29 degrees.

FRUITING:

They bloom in Florida in August to October, and fruit is harvested from February to May. Mature trees have been known to produce as much as 150 lbs of fruit in a season.

Fruits are typically 2-4" round and contain 6-11 seeds.

FRUIT TASTE:

Star apples are usually eaten fresh by cutting the ripe fruit in half and scooping out the sweet, juicy, white pulp. It is often mixed with yogurts or cottage cheese and is also delicious mixed in cold milkshakes!

Never bite into the rind or skin, as they contain a bitter, astringent sap.

Star apples are usually eaten fresh by cutting the ripe fruit in half and scooping out the sweet, juicy, white pulp. It is often mixed with yogurts or cottage cheese and is also delicious mixed in cold milkshakes! Never bite into the rind or skin, as they contain a bitter, astringent sap.