Eggfruit

Eggfruit (also known as canistel) is a tropical fruit native to Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. The scientific name for eggfruit is Pouteria campechiana. It is a member of the Sapotaceae family, which also includes other tropical fruits such as sapodilla and mamey sapote.

Description

The eggfruit tree can grow up to 8-10 meters in height. The leaves are evergreen, glossy, and leathery, measuring 10-25 cm in length. The flowers are small and white, with a sweet fragrance. The fruit is oval or spindle-shaped, measuring 7-15 cm in length. The skin is thin and yellow when ripe, while the flesh is bright yellow, sweet, and custard-like, hence the name "eggfruit". The fruit contains one to four brown seeds.

Cultivation

Eggfruit is typically grown in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure. The tree is relatively drought-tolerant but requires regular watering during the dry season. It can be propagated by seeds, which germinate in 30-60 days. The tree starts bearing fruit 3-5 years after planting.

Uses

Eggfruit is primarily consumed fresh but can also be used in cooking. It is often used in desserts, such as pies and ice cream, due to its sweet, custard-like flavor. In addition to its culinary uses, the fruit is also used in traditional medicine in some cultures. The leaves and bark of the tree are used to treat skin conditions and digestive disorders.

Nutritional Value

Eggfruit is rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. It also contains significant amounts of calcium, iron, and protein. The fruit is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy choice for a balanced diet.

See Also

• Tropical fruit
• Sapotaceae
• Pouteria campechiana