Round, shiny, and smooth-skinned, Caimito is a sweet fruit known by various names across Latin America and the Caribbean. Commonly referred to as Star Apple in English, it is native to the Greater Antilles and the West Indies. Over time, this delectable fruit has spread to other tropical regions, including the Philippines.
Caimito trees can reach impressive heights of 60-65 feet and bear juicy, tropical fruits that are delectable when ripe. The fruit’s skin is dense, and its milky-sweet flesh surrounds large, dark seeds. There are two types of Caimito in the Philippines: green and purple, both of which are popular for their distinct taste.
Star Apples get their name from the star-shaped pattern formed by the seeds when the fruit is cut horizontally. The fruit’s skin and pulp contain a milky, latex-like sap that can be quite sticky. When handling or cutting open a Caimito, it is essential to be cautious, as this sap can drip out and create a mess.
Caimito fruits are packed with nutrients, including vitamins A and C, calcium, and dietary fiber. They can be consumed fresh or used as an ingredient in various culinary applications, such as fruit salads, smoothies, and desserts. In traditional medicine, different parts of the Caimito tree, including the leaves and bark, have been used for their medicinal properties to treat ailments such as diabetes, inflammation, and skin conditions.
In summary, Caimito, or Star Apple, is a versatile and nutritious fruit native to the Caribbean and has become a beloved addition to the diverse range of tropical fruits available in the Philippines.
