Star Apple – Purple Caimito

Star Apple – Purple Caimito

Okay, let’s delve into the Purple Caimito, also known as the Purple Star Apple. This is likely the more common variety of Star Apple, and here’s what you should know: 

1. Appearance and Flavor:

• Purple Skin: The defining characteristic of the Purple Caimito is its smooth, glossy skin that ranges in color from deep purple to reddish-purple when ripe.
• White Pulp: Similar to the Green Caimito, the Purple Caimito has a soft, white, and milky pulp surrounding the star-shaped core containing several seeds.
• Sweet and Slightly Tangy Flavor: The pulp has a sweet, subtly tangy flavor that some compare to a mix of apple, lychee, and persimmon, but with a slight tartness that some describe as similar to a plum.
• Juicy and Creamy Texture: The flesh is juicy, smooth, and has a slightly creamy texture. 

2. Tree Characteristics:

• Evergreen Tree: The Purple Caimito, like other Star Apples, grows on a medium to large evergreen tree with a rounded, dense canopy.
• Ornamental Foliage: The tree has attractive foliage, with glossy green leaves that have a distinctive golden-brown underside.
• Tropical Preference: It thrives in warm, tropical and subtropical climates and is sensitive to frost.
• Canopy: The tree has a dense, rounded canopy and can grow up to 20-25 feet in height. 

3. How to Eat:

• Ripeness: Choose fruits that are slightly soft to the touch and have a deep, glossy purple skin, indicating ripeness.
• Cutting: Cut the fruit around the middle, going only partially in, then twist and pull the halves apart to avoid the inedible, sticky latex in the skin.
• Eating the Pulp: Scoop out the sweet pulp with a spoon, avoiding the skin and the star-shaped core. 

4. Growing Purple Caimito (Star Apple):

• Climate: Purple Caimito trees need a warm, tropical or subtropical climate, ideally in USDA hardiness zones 9b  – 11.
• Sun and Soil: They prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
• Watering: Water regularly, especially when young, and during dry periods.
• Fertilizing: Fertilize young trees regularly, and mature trees a few times a year with a balanced fertilizer.
• Pruning: Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and improve fruit production.
• Yield: Purple Caimito trees can be highly productive, often producing a large amount of fruit per season. 

5. Considerations:

• Sticky Sap (Latex): Be aware of the sticky white latex that oozes from the skin when cut. It’s best to avoid contact with your skin and clothes as it can stain.
• Seeds: While the pulp is delicious, the seeds and skin are not eaten. 

In Conclusion:

The Purple Caimito (Star Apple) is a beautiful and flavorful tropical fruit. Its striking color, sweet taste, and juicy flesh make it a unique and delightful treat. It’s a great choice for those in tropical and subtropical regions who want to add a touch of exotic flavor to their gardens and diet.