Star apple

What it is

Also called caimito, star apple belongs to the sapodilla family (Sapotaceae). The fruit measures 5–10 cm (2–4 in) across, with soft, milky white flesh. Its skin and inner rind release sticky latex and stay on the plate.

A ripe fruit has lost its shine and feels slightly soft, with a little wrinkling. Scoop out the flesh, leaving the seeds and core behind.

Where it comes from

Star apple's first home may be the West Indies, and today it is common on most Caribbean islands. It grows half-wild from southern Mexico to Panama and is planted as far south as northern Argentina and Peru.

In southern Vietnam and Cambodia it is grown for its fruit. In tropical West Africa, Zanzibar and the warmer parts of India it is planted more for its looks.

How it's eaten where it grows

In Jamaica, matrimony pairs the sweet flesh with the juice of a sour orange.

Jamaica Fruit Salad Ice takes it in another direction. Chopped star apple joins mango, citrus and pineapple, with coconut water, before the mixture is frozen. The fruit itself can also be halved and eaten straight from its skin with a spoon.

How it's grown

The tree needs a frost-free spot, soil that drains freely and shelter from dry winter winds. It can reach 7.5–15 m (25–50 ft), with a wide crown that casts dense shade. Growing one from seed means a wait of 5–10 years for fruit. Trees made from an existing tree, by methods such as grafting, can begin bearing in 1–2 years.

When and where you'll find it

In Florida, the harvest usually runs from February through May. In South Florida it turns up fresh at some tropical-fruit markets and nurseries, and fruit markets there send it out by mail order. Miami Fruit's green star apples are grown on small farms in South Florida.