THE WORLDWIDE FRUITS
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    • ORDER ARECALES >
      • FAMILY ARECACEAE >
        • SUBFAMILY ARECOIDEAE >
          • Tribe Areceae >
            • Subtribe Arecinae >
              • Genus Areca >
                • Areca catechu - Petel nut palm
                • For Copy
            • Subtribe Euterpeinae >
              • Genus Euterpe >
                • Euterpe oleracea
                • Euterpe precatoria
            • Subtribe Iquanurinae
            • Subtribe Ptychospermatinae
            • Subtribe Roystoneinae
          • Tribe Caryoteae >
            • Genus Arenga >
              • Arenga pinnata - Sugar palm
          • Tribe Cocoeae >
            • Genus Cocos >
              • Cocos nucifera (Coconut palm)
            • Genus Elaeis >
              • Elaeis quineensis - Oil palm tree
        • SUBFAMILY CALAMOIDEAE >
          • Tribe Calameae >
            • Genus Salacca >
              • Salacca wallichiana - Rakum palm
              • Salacca zalacca - Salak
        • SUBFAMILY CEROXYLOIDEAE >
          • Genus Phytelephas >
            • Phytelephas aequatorialis
            • Phytelephas macrocarpa
        • SUBFAMILY CORYPHOIDEAE >
          • Tribe Borasseae >
            • Genus Borassus >
              • Borassus flabellifer (Toddy palm)
            • Genus Lodoicea >
              • Lodoicea maldivica (Double coconut)
          • Tribe Phoeniceae >
            • Genus Phoenix >
              • Phoenix dactylifera (Date palm)
              • Phoenix reclinata (Senrgal date palm)
              • Phoenix sylvestris (Indian date palm)
        • SUBFAMILY NYPOIDEAE >
          • Genus Nypa >
            • Nypa fruticans (Nipa palm)
    • ORDER BRASSICALES >
      • FAMILY CAPPARACEAE >
        • Genus Capparis >
          • Capparis spinosa - Caper berry
        • Genus Crateva >
          • Crateva adansonii
          • Crateva religiosa - Garlic pear
      • FAMILY CARICACEAE >
        • Genus Carica >
          • Carica papaya - Papaya
        • Genus Jacaratia
        • Genus Vasconcellea >
          • Vasconcellea candicans - Mito tree
          • Vasconcellea goudotiana
          • Vasconcellea monoica
          • Vasconcellea pubescens - Mountain papaya
          • Vasconcellea querciflora
          • Vasconcellea x heilbornii - Babaco tree
    • ORDER CARYPHYLLALES >
      • FAMILY CACTACEAE >
        • SUBFAMILY CACTOIDEAE >
          • Tribe Cacteae
          • Tribe Cereeae >
            • Genus Cereus >
              • Cereus hildmannianus
              • Cereus jamacaru
              • Cereus repandus
          • Tribe Helocereeae >
            • Genus Hylocereus >
              • Hylocereus costaricensis (Red-fleshed Pitahaya)
              • Hylocereus indatus (Pitahaya or Dragon fruit)
              • Hylocereus megalanthus (Yellow pitahaya)
        • SUBFAMILY OPUNTIEAE >
          • Tribe Opuntieae >
            • Genus Opuntia >
              • Opuntia ficus-indica (Prickly pear)
              • Opuntia matudae (Xoconostle cactus)
        • SUBFAMILY PERESKIOIDEAE >
          • Genus Pereskia >
            • Pereskia aculeata
            • Pereskia bleo - Rose cactus
    • ORDER CUCURBITALES >
      • FAMILY CUCURBITACEAE >
        • SUBFAMILY CUCURBITOIDEAE >
          • Tribe Benincaseae >
            • Subtribe Benincasinae >
              • Genus Acanthosicyos >
                • Acanthosicyos horridus - Nara melon
                • Acathosicyos naudinianus - Gemsbok cucumber
              • Genus Benincasa >
                • Benincasa hispida - Winter melon
              • Genus Coccinia >
                • Coccinia grandis - Ivy gourd
              • Genus Cucumis >
                • Cucumis anguria - Maroon cucumber
                • Cucumis dipsaceus - Wild Spiny Cucumber
                • Cucumis melo - Muskmelon >
                  • Cantaloupe
                • Cucumis humofructus - Aadvark cucumber
                • Cucumis metuliferus - Horned melon
                • Cucumis myriocarpus - Gooseberry cucumber
                • Cucumis prophetarum - Paddy melon
                • Cucumis sativus (Cucumber) >
                  • Lemon Cucumber
              • Genus Citrullus >
                • Citrullus caffer - Citron melon
                • Citrullus colocynthis - Desert gourd
                • Citrullus ecirrhosus - Tsamma melon
                • Citrullus lanatus - Watermelon
              • Genus Lagenaria >
                • Lagennaria siceraria - Bottle gourd
            • Subtribe Luffinae >
              • Subtribe Cucumerinae
          • Tribe Cucurbiteae >
            • Genus Abobra >
              • Abobra tenuifolia - Cranberry gourd
            • Genus Cucurbita >
              • Cucurbita argyrosperma - Cushaw pumpkin
              • Cucurbita ficifolia - Figleaf gourd
              • Cucurbita foetidissima - Buffalo gourd
              • Cucurbita maxima - Giant pumpkin
              • Cucurbita moschata - Butternut squash
              • Cucurbita okeechobeensis
              • Cucurbita pepo - Field pumpkin
            • Genus Sicana >
              • New Page
              • Acorn Squash
          • Tribe Joliffieae >
            • Genus Siraitia >
              • Siraitia grosvenorii (Luo han guo or Monk fruit)
            • Genus Telfairia
          • Tribe Momordiceae >
            • Genus Momordica >
              • Momordica charantia - Bitter melon
              • Momordica cochinchinensis - Gac
              • Momordica dioica - Spine Gourd
          • Tribe Sicyoeae >
            • Genus Cyclanthera >
              • Cyclanthera explodens
              • Cyclanthera pedata - Achocha gourd
            • Genus Frantzia
            • Genus Hodgsonia
            • Genus Luffa >
              • Luffa accutangula (Angled luffa)
              • Luffa Aegyptiaca (Smooth luffa)
            • Genus Marah
            • Genus Sechium - Chayota genus >
              • Sechium edule - Chayote
            • Genus Trichosanthes >
              • Trichosanthes cucumerina - Snake gourd
          • Tribe Siraitieae >
            • Genus Siraitia >
              • Siraitia grosvenorii - Monk fruit
    • ORDER ERICALES >
      • FAMILY ACTINIDIACEAE >
        • Genus Actinidia >
          • Actinidia arguta - Hardy kiwifruit
          • Actinidia chinensis - Golden kiwi)fruit
          • Actinidia diliciosa - Kiwi fruit
          • Actinidia kolomikta - Arctic kiwifruit
          • Actinidia melanandra - Red kiwifruit
          • Actinidia polygama - Silver vine
      • FAMILY EBENACEAE >
        • Genus Diospyros >
          • Diospyros blancoi - Velvet persimmon
          • Diospyros decandra - Gold apple
          • Diospyros kaki - Asian Persimmon
          • Diospyros lotus - Lilac persimmon
          • Diospyros nigra - Black sapote
          • Diospyros taxana - Texas persimmon
          • Diospyros virginiana (American Persimmon)
      • FAMILY ERICACEAE >
        • SUBFAMILY ARBUTOIDEAE >
          • Genus Arbutus >
            • Arbutus andrachne - Greek strawberry tree
            • Arbutus azizonica
            • Arbutus unedo - Strawberry tree
            • Arbutus xalapensis
          • Genus Artostaphylos
          • Genus Xylococcus >
            • Xylococcus bicolor - Mission mananita
        • SUBFAMILY STYPHELIOIDEAE >
          • Genus Leptecophylla >
            • Leptecophylla juniperina
            • Leptecophylla tameiameiae
          • Genus Styphelia
        • SUBFAMILY VACCINOIDEAE >
          • Tribe Gaultherieae >
            • Genus Gaultheria
          • Tribe Vaccinieae >
            • Genus Gaylussacia >
              • Gaylussacia baccata - Black Huckleberry
              • Gaylussacia branchycera (Box Huckleberry)
              • Gaylussacia dumosa (Dwarf Huckleberry)
              • Gaylussacia frondosa (Blue Huckleberry)
            • Genus Vaccinium >
              • Bilberry or Whortleberry
              • Blueberry
              • Cranberry
              • Lingonberry or Cowberry
              • Huckleberry
      • FAMILY LECYTHIDACEAE >
        • Genus Bertholletia >
          • Bertholletia excelsa - Brazil nut
        • Genus Couroupita >
          • Couroupita guianensis - Cannonball tree
        • Genus Gustavia >
          • Gustavia superba
        • Genus Lecythis >
          • Lecythis pisonic
          • Lecythis zabucajo
      • FAMILY SAPOTACEAE >
        • SUBFAMILY CHRYSOPHYLLOIDEAE >
          • Genus Chrysophyllum >
            • Chrysophyllum albidum - African star apple
            • Chrysophyllum cainito - Milk fruit
            • Chrysophyllum oliviforme - Wild Star apple
            • Chrysophyllum roxburghii
            • Chrysophyllum magalismontanum
          • Genus Englerophytum >
            • Englerrophytum magalismontanum
            • Englerophytum natalense
          • Genus Synsepalum >
            • Synsepalum dulcificum (Miracle fruit)
          • Genus Pouteria >
            • Pouteria australis
            • Pouteria campechiana - Cannistel
            • Pouteria caimito - Abiu tree
            • Pouteria eerwark
            • Pouteria lucuma - Lucuma
            • Pouteria multiflora - Broad - leaved lucuma
            • Pouteria sandwicensis
            • Pouteria sapota - Mamey sapote
            • Pouteria viridis - Green sapote
        • SUBFAMILY SAPODOIDEAE >
          • Tribe Sapoteae >
            • Genus Manilkara >
              • Manilkara bidentata - Cow tree
              • Manilkara chicle (Chicle)
              • Manilkara hexandra
              • Manilkara huberi
              • Manilkara zopota (Sapodilla)
            • Genus Mimusops >
              • Mimusops caffra
              • Mimusops elengi
              • Mimusops zeyheri
          • Tribe Sideroxyleae >
            • Genus Argania >
              • Argania spinosa
    • ORDER FABALES >
      • FAMILY FABACEAE >
        • SUBFAMILY CAESALPINIOIDEAE >
          • Genus Pithecellobium >
            • Pithecellobium dulce
        • SUBFAMILY DETARIOIDEAE >
          • Genus Tamarindus - Tamarind genus >
            • Tamarindus indica - Tamarind
        • SUBFAMILY DIALIOIDEAE >
          • Genus Dialium >
            • Dialium cochinchinense
            • Dialium guineense - Black velvet tamarind
            • Dialium indum - Tamarin plum
        • SUBFAMILY FABOIDEAE >
          • Tribe Dalbergieae >
            • Genus Arachis - Peanut genus >
              • Arachis hypogaea - Peanut
          • Tribe Fabeae >
            • Genus Lathyrus - Peavine genus
            • Genus Pisum >
              • Pisum sativum - Pea
            • Genus Vicia >
              • Vicia faba - Broad bean
          • Tribe Phaseoleae >
            • Subtribe Cajaninae >
              • Genus Cajanus - Pigeon pea genus >
                • Cajanus cajan - Pigeon pea
            • Subtribe Glycininae >
              • Genus Glycine >
                • Glycine max
            • Subtribe Phaseolinae >
              • Genus Psophocarpus - Winged bean genus >
                • Psophocarpus tetragonolobus - Winged bean
    • ORDER LAMIALES >
      • FAMILY OLEACEAE >
        • Tribe Oleeae >
          • Genus Olea >
            • Olea europaea - Olive
      • FAMILY PEDALIACEAE >
        • Genus Sesamum >
          • Sesamum indicum - Sesame
          • Genus Couroupita
    • ORDER LAURALES >
      • FAMILY LAURACEAE >
        • Genus Persea >
          • Persea americana (Avocado)
    • ORDER MAGNOLIALES >
      • FAMILY ANNONACEAE >
        • Genus Annona >
          • Annona x atemoya - Atenmoya
          • Annona cherimola - Cherimoya
          • Annona chrysophylia - Graines
          • Annona crassiflora - Marrolo
          • Annona diversiflora - Ilama
          • Annona glabra - Pond apple
          • Annona montana - Mountain soursop
          • Annona muricata - Soursop
          • Annona purpurea - Soncoya
          • Annona reticulata - Custard apple
          • Annona sebegalensis - African custard apple
          • Annona squamosa - Sweetsop
        • Genus Anonidium >
          • Anonidium mannii - Junglesop
        • Genus Asimina >
          • Asimina triloba - Common pawpaw
        • Genus Monodora >
          • Monodora myristica - Calabash nutmeg
        • Genus Rollinia >
          • Rollinia deliciosa - Wild sugar apple
        • Genus Uvaria >
          • Uvaria chamae
          • Uvaria ovata
          • Uvaria rufa
      • FAMILY MYRRISTICACEAE >
        • Genus Myristica >
          • Myristica fragrans - True nutmeg
          • Myristica malabarica - Bombay nutmeg
        • Genus Pycnanthus
    • ORDER MALPIGHIALES >
      • FAMILY CALOPHYLLACEAE >
        • Genus Mammea >
          • Mammea africana - African mamey apple
          • Mammea americana - Mamey apple
      • FAMILY CLUSIACEAE >
        • SUBFAMILY CLUSIOIDEAE >
          • Tribe Garcinieae >
            • Genus Garcinia >
              • Garcinia dulcis - Mundu tree
              • Garcinia humilis - Achacha tree
              • Garcinia gardneriana - Bacupari
              • Garcinia indica - Kokum tree
              • Garcinia intermedia - Lemon drop mangosteen
              • Garcinia mangostana - Mangosteen
          • Tribe Platonieae >
            • Genus Platonia - Bacury genus >
              • Platonia insignis - Bacuri tree
          • Tribe Plukenetieae
        • SUBFAMILY HYPERICOIDEAE >
          • Tribe Calophylleae >
            • Genus Mammea
      • FAMILY EUPHORBIACEAE >
        • SUBFAMILY ACALYPHOIDEAE >
          • Tribe Acalypheae >
            • Genus Ricinus >
              • Ricinus communis
          • Tribe Plukenetieae >
            • Genus Plukenetia >
              • Plukenetia conophora
              • Plukenetia volubitis
        • SUBFAMILY CROTONOIDEAE >
          • Tribe Aleuritideae >
            • Genus Aleurites
          • Tribe Manitroteae >
            • Genus Manihot
          • Tribe Micrandreae >
            • Genus Schinziophyton
      • FAMILY MALPIGHIACEAE >
        • Genus Bunchosia >
          • Bunchosia argentea
          • Bunchosia armeniaca >
            • FAMILY GOMORTEGACEAE >
              • Genus Gomortega >
                • Gomortega keule
        • Genus Byrsonima >
          • Byrsonima crassifolia - Nance fruit
        • Genus Malpighia >
          • Malpighia emarginata (West Indian cherry)
      • FAMILY PHYLLANTHACEAE >
        • SUBFAMILY ANTIDESMATOIDEAE >
          • Tribe Antidesmeae >
            • Genus Antidesma >
              • Antidesma bunius
          • Tribe Scepinae >
            • Genus Baccaurea
        • SUBFAMILY PHYLLANTHOIDEAE >
          • Tribe Phyllantheae >
            • Genus Phyllanthus >
              • Phyllanthus acidus (Star gooseberry)
              • Phyllanthus emblica (Indian gooseberry)
    • ORDER MALVALES >
      • FAMILY BIXACEAE >
        • Genus Bixa >
          • Bixa orellana
      • FAMILY MALVACEAE >
        • SUBFAMILY BOMBACOIDEAE >
          • Genus Adansona - Baobab genus >
            • Adansonia digitata - Baobab
            • Adansonia grandidieri - Giant baobab
            • Andansonia gregorii - Australian baobab
          • Genus Quararibea >
            • Quararibea cordata - South American Sapote
        • SUBFAMILY BYTTNEROIDEAE >
          • Genus Theobroma >
            • Theobroma bicolor (Mocambo)
            • Theobroma cacao (Cacao tree)
            • Theobroma granddiflorum - Cupuacu tree
        • SUBFAMILY HELICTEROIDEAE >
          • Tribe Durionneae >
            • Genus Durio L. >
              • Durio dulcis (Red Durian)
              • Durio kutejensis - Durian pulu
              • Durio zibethinus (Durian)
              • Durio graveolens - Red fleshed durian
        • SUBFAMILY MALVOIDEAE >
          • Tribe Hibisceae >
            • Genus Abelmoschus >
              • Abelmoschus caillei - West African okra
              • Abelmoschus esculentus - Okra
        • SUBFAMILY STERCULIOIDEAE >
          • Genus Cola >
            • Cola acuminata
            • Cola nilida
          • Genus Sterculia
      • FAMILY MUNTINGIACEAE >
        • Genus Muntingia >
          • Muntingia calabura (Jamaica cherry)
    • ORDER MYRTALES >
      • FAMILY LYTHRACEAE >
        • SUBFAMILY PUNICOIDEAE >
          • Genus Punica >
            • Runica granatum (Pomegranate)
            • Punica protopunica (Socotran pomegranate)
        • SUBFAMILY SONNERATIOIDEAE >
          • Genus Sonneratia >
            • Sonneratia alba
            • Sonneratia caseolaris
            • Sonneratia hainanensis
            • Sonneratia ovata
        • SUBFAMILY TRAPOIDEAE >
          • Genus Trapa >
            • Trapa natan - Water caltrop
      • FAMILY MYRTACEAE >
        • SUBFAMILY MYRTOIDEAE >
          • Tribe Myrteae >
            • Genus Acca >
              • Acca sellowiana
            • Genus Amomyrtus
            • Genus Austromyrtus
            • Genus Eugenia
            • Genus Hexachlamys
            • Genus Luma >
              • Luma apiculata
              • Luma chequen
            • Genus Myrtus
            • Genus Plinia
            • Genus Psidium >
              • Psidium cattleyanum (Cherry Guava)
              • Psidium guajava (Guava)
            • Genus Rhodomyrtus
            • Genus Ugni
          • Tribe Syzygieae >
            • Genus Syzygium >
              • Syzygium jambos
              • Syzygium oleosum
              • Syzygium paniculatum
              • Syzygium papyraceum
              • Syzygium samarangense (Java apple)
              • Syzygium smithii
              • New Page
    • ORDER ROSALES >
      • FAMILY CANNABACEAE >
        • Genus Celtis >
          • Celtis occidentalis
          • Celtis sinensis
      • FAMILY ELAEAGNACEAE >
        • Genus Elaeagnus >
          • Elaegnus angustifola - Russian olive
          • Elaeagnus multiflora - Cherry silverberry
        • Genus Hippophae >
          • Hippophae rhamnoides - Sea buckthorn
        • Genus Shepherdia >
          • Shepherdia argentea - Silver buffaloberry
          • Shepherdia canadensis - Canadian buffalberry
      • FAMILY MORACEAE >
        • Tribe Artocarpeae >
          • Genus Artocarpus >
            • Artocarpus altilis (Breadfruit)
            • Artocarpus camansi - Breadnut
            • Artocarpus integer (Cempedak)
            • Artocarpus heterophyllus (Jackfruit)
          • Genus Treculia >
            • Treculia africana (African breadfruit)
        • Tribe Dorstenieae >
          • Genus Brosimum - Breadnut genus >
            • Brosimum alicastrum - Breadnut
        • Tribe Durioneae >
          • Genus Durio >
            • Durio zibethinus (Durian)
        • Tribe Ficeae >
          • Genus Ficus >
            • Ficus carica - Common fig
            • Ficus coronata - Creek sandpeper fig
            • Ficus platypoda - Desert fig
            • Ficus racemosa - Cluster fig
        • Tribe Moceae >
          • Genus Maclura >
            • Maclura cochinchinensis - Cockpur thorn
            • Maclura pomifera - Osage orange
          • Genus Morus >
            • Morus nigra - Black mulberry
            • Morus rubra - Red mulberry
      • FAMILY RHAMNACEAE >
        • Genus Ziziphus >
          • Ziziphus jujuba
          • Ziziphus lotus
          • Ziziphus mauritiana
          • Ziziphus mistol
          • Ziziphus mucronata
          • Ziziphus nummularia
      • FAMILY ROSACEAE >
        • SUBFAMILY AMYGDALOIDEAE >
          • Tribe Amygdaleae >
            • Genus Prunus >
              • Subgenus Amygdalus - Almond and Peach >
                • Prunus dulcis - Almond
                • Prunus persica - Peach
              • Subgenus Cerasus - Cherry tree >
                • Prunus avium (Sweet cherry)
                • Prunus cerasus (Sourc cherry)
              • Subgenus Prunus - Apricot and Plum >
                • Section Armeniaca - Apricot trees
                • Plum trees
              • Subgenus laurocerasus - Cherry laurel
              • Subgenus Lithocerasus
              • Subgenus Padus - Bird cherry
          • Tribe Maleae >
            • Subtribe Malinae >
              • Genus Cydonia >
                • Cydonia oblonga (Quince)
              • Genus Eriobotrya >
                • Eriobotrya japonica (Loquat)
              • Genus Malus >
                • Malus domestica - Apple tree
                • Malus sylvestris - European Wild apple
                • Malus pumila (Apple tree)
              • Genus Pyrus >
                • Pyrus communis - European pear
                • Pyrus pyrifolia - Asian pear
                • Pyrus x bretschneideri - Chinese white pear
              • Genus Sorbus >
                • Sorbus subgenus Aria
                • Sorbus subgenus Chamaemespilus
                • Sorbus subgenus Cormus
                • Sorbus subgenus Micromeles
                • Sorbus subgenus Sorbus
                • Sorbus subgenus Torminaria
        • SUBFAMILY ROSOIDEAE >
          • Tribe Rubeae >
            • Genus Prunus
            • Genus Rubus >
              • Rubus fruticosus (Blackberry)
              • Rubus x loganobaccus (Loganberry)
            • Genus Eriobotrya
          • Tribe Potentilleae >
            • Genus Fragaria >
              • Fragaria x ananassa (Straw berry)
              • Fragaria virginiana (Virgina strawberry)
              • Fragaria moschata - Musk strawberry
    • ORDER SAPINDALES >
      • FAMILY ANACARDIACEAE >
        • SUBFAMILY ANACARDIOIDEAE >
          • Genus Anacardium >
            • Anacardium occidentale (Cashew tree)
            • Anacardium othonianum (Little cashew)
          • Genus Bouea
          • Genus Mangifera - Mango genus >
            • Mangifera indica - Mango tree
            • Mangifera odorata - Saipan Mango
            • Mangifera siamensis - Thai Mango
            • Mangifera sylvatica - Nepal Mango
          • Genus Rhus >
            • Rhus ovata - Sugar sumac
            • Rhus typhina - Staghorn sumac
        • SUBFAMILY SPONDIOIDEAE >
          • Genus Dracontomelon >
            • Dracontomelon duperreanum (Vietnamese: Sau)
          • Genus Spondias >
            • Spondias dulcis (Golden apple)
            • Spondias mombin (Yellow mommbin)
            • Spondias purpurea - Purple mombin
            • Spondias tuberosa (Brazil plum)
      • FAMILY BURSERACEAE >
        • Genus Canarium >
          • Canarium album
          • Canarium luzonicum
          • Canarium ovatum
          • Canarium pseudodecumanum
        • Genus Dacryodes >
          • Dacryodes edulis - Safou tree
      • FAMILY MELIACEAE >
        • Genus Lansium >
          • Lansium parasiticum - Langsat tree
        • Genus Sandoricum >
          • Sandoricum koetiape - Santol fruit
      • FAMILY RUTACEAE >
        • SUBFAMILY AURANTIOIDEAE >
          • Tribe Citreae >
            • Subtribe Balamocitrinae >
              • Genus Aegle - Bael genus
            • Subtribe Citrinae >
              • Genus Citrus >
                • Important Species >
                  • Citrus maxima (Pomelo)
                  • Citrus medica (Citron)
                  • Citrus reticulata - Mandarin
                  • Citrus tangerina (Tangerine)
                • Important Hybrids >
                  • Citrus x sinensis (Sweet orange)
                  • Citrus reticula x sinensis (King orange)
              • Genus Fortunella
            • FAMILY VITACEAE >
              • Genus Cayratia >
                • Cayralia trifola (Vietnamese wild grape)
              • Genus Vitis >
                • Vitis labrusca (Fox grape vine)
                • Vitis vinifera (Common grape vine)
            • Subtribe Triphasiinae
          • Tribe Clauseneae >
            • Genus Glycosmis
        • SUBFAMILY TODDALIOIDEAE >
          • Genus Casimiroa >
            • Casimiroa edulis - White sapote
      • FAMILY SAPINDACEAE >
        • SUBFAMILY HIPPOCASTANOIDEAE >
          • Genus Aesculus - Horse chestnut genus >
            • Aesculus hippocastanum - Horse chestnut
        • SUBFAMILY SAPINDOIDEAE >
          • Genus Blighia >
            • Blighia sapida (Ackee)
          • Genus Diploglottis >
            • Diploglottis australis - Australian tamarin
          • Genus Dimocarpus >
            • Dimocarpus longan (Longan tree)
          • Genus Litchi >
            • Litchi chinensis (Lychee)
          • Genus Melicoccus >
            • Melicoccus bijugatus - Spanish lime
          • Genus Nephelium >
            • Nephelium hypoleucum (Korlan tree)
            • Nephelium malabile (Pulasan tree)
            • Nephelium lappaceum (Rambutan)
            • Nephelium xerospermoides (Hairless Rambutan)
          • Genus Paullinia >
            • Paullinia cupana - Guarana tree
          • Genus Talisia >
            • Talisia esculenta
        • SUBFAMILY XANTHOCEROIDEAE >
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  • ABOUT FRUITS
  • Types of Fruits

Genus Pouteria

Pouteria lucuma
​Lucuma tree

Edited by Ho Dinh hai
Long An - Vietnam
​Updated: 21/11/2016

1- Introduction to the Species Pouteria lucuma - Lucuma tree

               1.1- Scientific cassification
                Kingdom:      Plantae
                (unranked):    Angiosperms
                (unranked):    Eudicots
                (unranked):    Asterids
                Order:           Ericales
                Family:          Sapotaceae
                Subfamily:    Chrysophylloideae
                Genus:          Pouteria Aubl.
                Species:        Pouteria lucuma  (Ruiz & Pav.) Kuntze
                 1.2- Species Pouteria lucuma - Lucuma tree
                 + Overview
                 The lúcuma (Pouteria lucuma) is a subtropical fruit in the genus Pouteria, in the subfamily Chrysophylloideae, in the family Sapotaceae of the order Ericales. It is native to the Andean valleys and produced in Chile, Peru, and Ecuador.
             Lúcuma has been found on ceramics at burial sites of the indigenous people of coastal Peru. The Moche people had a fascination with agriculture and often chose to represent fruits and vegetables, including lúcuma, in their art.
                 In Peru, harvesting season is from October to March and in Chile from June to November.
                + Synonyms:
                1- Lucuma obovata
                2- Pouteria obovata

2- Characteristics of the Species Pouteria lucuma (Ruiz&Pav.) Kuntze - Lucuma tree

​                 2.1- Description
                  + The plant
                  This is a handsome tree, small to moderately tall, with slightly leathery leaves.
                This attractive tree ranges from 8-15 m (25 to 50 ft) in height, has a dense, rounded crown, velvety hairs on its young branchlets, and copious milky latex.
                  + The leaves
               The evergreen leaves, clustered at the tips of small branches, are obovate, oval or elliptic, blunt at the apex, pointed at the base, 12.5-25 cm (5 to 10 in) long; thin or slightly leathery; dark-green on the upper surface, pale and sometimes brown-hairy on the underside.
                  + The flowers
                 The profuse flowers, borne singly or 2 or 3 together in the leaf axils, are tubular, yellowish-green, with hairy sepals and 5- to 7-lobed mouth about 1.25 cm (1/2 in) across.
                The flowers are white, and narrowly tubular. The female style projects from the bud prior to the flower opening, possibly as a means of ensuring cross pollination. The male anthers are arranged around the 'mouth' of the flower 'tube'. Presumably they can then pollinate the female part, if it hasn't already been done.
                 + The fruits
               The fruit is oblate, ovate or elliptic, pointed or depressed at the apex; 7.5-10 cm (3 to 4 in) long, with thin, delicate skin, brownish-green more or less overlaid with russet, and bright-yellow, firm, dry, mealy, very sweet pulp, permeated with latex until almost overripe.
               The fruit is generally large, "up to 1 kg" according to Fruitipdia. The tree with the biggest fruit here has some large fruit that weigh around 580 grams. Other trees have smaller fruit, around 350 grams.
                 + The seeds
                 There may be 1 to 5, usually 2, rounded or broad-oval, dark-brown, glossy seeds with a whitish hilum on one flattish side.
                 The smaller fruit have 1 or 2 seeds, the larger fruit have more, up to 4. The seeds are large, with a shiny dark brown seed coat.
                Even so, pulp makes up 64% to 82% of the fruit. Large fruit size doesn't necessarily indicate more seeds. Some 500 gram fruit only have 2 seeds, for example. 
                2.2- Origin and Distribution
                 + Origin
                The lúcuma (Pouteria lucuma) is native to the Andean valleys and produced in Chile, Peru, and Ecuador.
                 + Distribution
                The lúcuma (or pouteria lucuma) grows best at altitudes above 1,000 up to 2400 meters in the coastal Andean valleys of Peru, Chile and Ecuador. 
       It grows at temperate elevations between 2700-3000 metres. Temperatures of its elevated native range make the species technically subtropical, even though its native region is strictly tropical. Attempts at growing lúcuma in Florida's climate typically fail. In addition to Peru, the fruit is grown also to a limited extent in Bolivia and Costa Rica.
It grows well in most tropical regions, but is not widely favored.
                 2.3- Biological Characteristics
                  + Climate and Soil Needs
                  - Climate Needs
                 This species is not tropical, but grows at temperate elevations-between 2,700-3,000 m (9,000 and 10,000 ft) in Peru. It is adapted to fairly dry locations.
              The trees are adapted to the climate of the Andean low mountain ranges, which experience temperatures of 8oC to 27oC. The optimum range is 14oC to 24oC, which fits well with the north Auckland climate - certainly, the  trees seem well adapted to conditions here. Air frosts are extremely rare here, but the Peruvian information is that it "does not tolerate heavy frosts, and can die with temperatures below 5oC".
                  - Soil Needs
                Peruvian information says the tree will grow across a wide range of soil types, including somewhat calcareous or even slightly saline soils, so long as the soil is fairly well drained. Most of the seedlings here have grown well in an area of tight sandy-clay. This is a very damp soil in places, and several trees have succumbed (or are slow-motion succumbing) to Phytopthora. The others are healthy. 
                 + Propagation
                  1- Seed propagation
               Seedling trees are available from time to time from garden centres and from specialist nurseries such as Edible Gardens in Kumeu, Auckland. The Ecuadorian seedlings, introduced in 1982, did not commence fruiting until 1994, a period of 12 years. However, these are Ecuadorian seed, are unselected, and the trees are growing in unfavorable conditions. Others who have grown the plant from seed outside its native environment also report a 12 to 15 year period before the first flowering, then two years to the first fruit set.
                Fresh seeds germinate in about a week or so, and the shoot generally appears about 2 weeks later. It can take as long as 3 months for a shoot to emerge.
               The more mature the seed, the faster the germination (all else equal). The seed loses viability if it dries out, so should be sown as near fresh as possible. Some claim germination is faster if the shiny hard seed coat is removed.
                 2- Graft propagation
             Experience in New Zealand from Government cultivar introductions in the 1980's is that grafted plants will commence flowering in around 4-5 years from planting out in fertile, well drained soils. The  grafted plants at LandsEndt commenced fruiting 5 years after planting out, and the literature says that some grafted plants start fruiting in the 5th year, but reliable fruiting only starts after the 6th year.This is still better than seedlings. There are no recognized rootstocks, so any seedling lucuma  is used. If you have access to scionwood of good types, you can try grafting it to seedlings. Seedlings should be about pencil thickness, which might take around 8 months or so from planting seeds.
              It was tried some simple terminal 'wedge' grafts in summer (late december), and of the 5 attempts, 1 succeeded. The graft union is not very good, but the tree is 8 months old now (2013), and seems OK. 
              Scionwood bleeds a sticky white latex when it is cut from the tree. I washed it off best I could before grafting. Whether this is the 'right' thing to do or not, I don't know. There are some hints that at a certain time of year the sap doesn't flow as strongly, and this is the best time to graft. Sadly, there is no mention of when that time would be! Grafting in winter (July), when wood is is mature has been successful provided it is done in greenhouse conditions [B. King pers. comm 2014].
               If the winter is warm (as 2014 is) seedling lucuma growing outside in planter bags may start new terminal growth in mid july. This might fit nicely with mid winter grafting, especially if newly grafted plants can be given some protection, even is not full glasshouse conditions.
There is a method (Gardiazabal and Valenzuela 1984) of grafting "cuttings" onto the long emerging  root of germinating lucuma seeds, but details are scant. The principle is to germinate the seeds, cut off the thick white root, split it, and place a wedge of a tip of the chosen variety into the slit made in the root. 
                The seed is then re-potted 'upside down' so the root with the branch tip is sticking up in the air. Any little laterals coming off the base of the thick main root are buried, as are other subsidiary roots, although these may need to be taped so they change direction to point to the 'new down'.
               It was grafted the seeds on the left about September, and left them enclosed in a plastic bag in damp vermiculite. Every terminal scion succumbed to fungal infection, but almost every single one had made a strong union with the root within 2 weeks. The technique seems promising, so long as fungi are controlled in the humid conditions.
                3- Cutting propagation
              The literature also refers to propagation by both cuttings and by marcottage. Cutting grown trees of 'Molina' were very briefly available from a specialist nursery, but I have never seen them on offer again. Pity. My little tree of 'Molina' was crushed within its chicken wire protective sleeve by a malevolent sheep.
               "Up to" 80% rooting of terminal leafy cuttings has been obtained under mist when the cuttings were treated with NAA plant rooting hormone at the rate of 4,000 to 8,000 ppm. Another report from this researcher in 1992 described taking terminal leafy cuttings from actively growing branches, treating them with 4,000 ppm of NAA, and placing them in a mix of equal parts of sand, peat, and styrofoam chips in wooden trays. The cuttings did not have mist, but were fully enclosed in a polythene 'tent' and put in 50% shade. Rooting started after 50 days, and the ultimate 'strike rate' was around 80%. 
                 2.4- Nutrition of Lucuma fruit
               According to 'The Lucuma', lucuma fruit have a relatively high protein content of 1.5% to 2.4% by weight. The flesh contains 25 grams of carbohydrate per 100 grams. The sugar component of the carbohydrates are 8.4 grams of glucose, 4.7 grams of fructose, 1.7 grams of sucrose, and 0.06 grams of inositol. Prior to maturity, there is only sucrose present, and this is gradually converted to other sugars in the process of ripening.
                On a per 100 gram fresh pulp basis, lucuma fruit have about 2.3mg of carotene, about 2mg of niacin, 0.14 grams riboflavin (B2), and 0.01 grams thiamine (B1). Lucuma fruit have over three times the amount of niacin than apples (for example) have, but significantly less of the other B vitamins than apple. 
               Lucuma fruit contain trivial amounts of vitamin C, about 2.2 milligrams. (A mango, for comparison has around 63 to 158 mg per 100 grams of pulp, depending on variety.)
                 Like banana, lucuma has relatively high values for dietary fibre, mainly insoluble dieatary fibre.
              Only limited nutritional information is available and only for lúcuma powder, indicating moderate content of protein and iron, each providing 14% of the Daily Value in a 100 gram serving which supplies 420 calories.
                   2.5- Health Benefits of Lucuma fruit
                   + Introduction
                Lucuma, scientifically known as Pouteria lucuma has its origins in Peru and is considered to be one of the several super foods. The flesh of this fruit resembles the consistency of the yolk of a hardboiled egg and hence is also called egg fruit. Lucuma tastes very sweet, similar to the taste of sweet potato and maple, and in many places, it is widely used as a sweetening agent in food items like ice cream. Outside of peru, Lucuma is mostly available in the form of Lucuma powder. The powder is obtained by dehydrating the inner pulp of the fruit. This subtropical fruit is ovoid in shape with green colored skin and yellow-orange colored flesh.
               Lucuma is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants and protein, which makes the fruit extremely beneficial for your health and well being. According to a report that has been published in the Journal of Medicinal Food in the year 2009, regular intake of lucuma may help in reducing high blood pressure and in managing diabetes. Lucuma, has also been referred to as the Gold of Incas by the Peruvians, who have been enjoying this fruit as a food source from time immemorial. For them, lucuma is also a symbol of fertility. Lucuma forms an indispensible element in many of their traditional celebrations too. They even have about 26 villages named after this exotic fruit. An interesting fact about the lucuma tree is that it takes almost five years to produce its first fruit. But once this happens, the tree will then be able to bear as much as 500 fruits each season. Usually, when other kinds of crops fail, people used to depend on lucuma for their food. As such, the lucuma tree also has the name ‘Tree of Life’.
                 + The 12 Health benefits of Lucuma fruit
                  Being a rich source of nutrients and antioxidants, Lucuma is highly beneficial to us in many ways.
                   1- Lucuma in treatment of diabetes
               In spite of the fact that lucuma tastes very sweet and is used as a sweetening agent, it is found to be very effective in managing diabetes. This fruit falls in the category of foods with a low glycemic index and hence is suitable for people suffering from diabetes. It helps to control blood sugar levels and provides energy without causing considerable spikes or falls in the sugar levels.
                   2- Lucuma prevents weight gain
                Just like most of the fruits, lucuma is also an excellent source of fiber. The advantage of eating fiber rich foods is that they have fewer calories and they make you feel full for a longer period of time. This prevents you from frequent snacking and overeating, which is very important when it comes to weight management.
                  3- Lucuma improves digestive health
                The high content of fiber in lucuma helps in normalizing your bowel movements, thus preventing constipation. Fiber adds volume to your stool, making it easy to pass through the digestive tract. A diet rich in fibers is known to reduce the risk of many problems related to the digestive system such as stomach ulcers, diverticulitis, irritable bowel syndrome and gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD).
                  4- Lucuma promotes wound healing
             Studies suggest that lucuma has both antifungal and antibiotic properties. It has been found to be highly effective in tissue regeneration and in wound closure. Lucuma nut oil when applied to the affected area helps to speed up the healing process.
                 5- Lucuma and cancer
               Lucuma has been found to prevent some types of cancers. The antioxidants in this fruit fight against the free radicals that are harmful to your body. These toxins have been associated with causing many health problems including cancer.
                 6- Lucuma boosts your immune system
             The nutrients and antioxidants in lucuma have the power to boost your immune system and protect you from many of the serious diseases.
                 7- Benefits of Lucuma for skin
               Because of the excellent anti-inflammatory qualities of lucuma, it is used for healing abrasions and wounds of the skin. It also has the ability to reduce the effects of aging such as wrinkles and fine lines. Lucuma is rich in beta-carotene that promotes the growth and repair of cells, which in turn reduces the signs of aging. Beta-carotene also acts as a sunscreen, protecting your skin from the harmful UV rays of the sun.
                 8- Benefits for Lucuma for bones
              Lucuma contains a significant amount of calcium and phosphorus that provides strength to the bones. Both these minerals are essential for the growth of your bones and also for keeping them healthy and strong.
                 9- Lucuma lowers cholesterol
               It has been found that lucuma has the ability to reduce the levels of triglycerides and bad cholesterol (LDL) in your blood and reduce the risks of stroke and heart attack.
                10- Lucuma helps to improve your mood
              Lucuma is known to have the power to help you relax by balancing the hormone levels and also by managing conditions like stress, mood swings, anxiety and depression.
                11- Lucuma provides energy
               Lucuma is a fantastic fruit that is full of healthy carbohydrates. These carbohydrates, in addition to providing fuel and energy for your day to day activities, help in improving the functioning of your nervous system too.
                12- Lucuma for muscle building
               Proper nutrition and exercise are the two things that can help you build your muscles the natural way. Lucuma has been found to help in muscle building. This fruit, being rich in antioxidants offers you vitality. The high content of iron in lucuma helps to reduce fatigue so that you can recover from the muscle building exercise routines at a much faster rate. Muscle building depends to a great extent on the strength of your bones. The abundance of minerals like calcium and phosphorus in lucuma not only increases bone strength but also improves blood circulation.
                 Source: Health benefits of Lucuma | Value Food

3- The Uses of Lucuma fruit

​               3.1- Food Uses
                + Lucuma Fruit As Super Food
                The fruit is eaten raw, out-of-hand, when fully ripe but Costa Ricans find that, though the flavor is appealing at first, one soon finds it repulsive because of the peculiar aftertaste. The lucmo has been stewed in sirup, used as pie-filling, and made into preserves. Currently, some fruits are being shipped from Chile to England where they are being used in making ice cream. A dehydrated, powdered product is being produced by a tomato cannery in Peru.
                Historically, the trees have provided food in times of shortage of other crops, so can be seen as 'insurance' against crop failure. It has only ever been used to any extent in South America, but there is increasing interest in the fruit as a natural ingredient.
            Villages in Ecuador and Peru have traditionally had one or more trees by houses or in the vicinity of the settlement, but it is not common in the marketplace.
             Due to its high nutritional value, it was once referred as the Gold of the Incas and it has been an important crop since ancestral times. This is proven by the many ceramic remains from the Moche and later Inca cultures. 
            This starchy fruit is high in iron, niacin or vitamin B3, carotenoids, potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus. Lucuma powder can be easily added to smoothies or used in desserts such as puddings, creams, cakes, cookie, etc… 
               + Fresh lucuma is the best!
               It’s tasty starchy flesh melts in your mouth with a custardy like flavor. If you are luck to be in Peru during the summer months, from January to April, you can find it in most markets. Also many specialty ice cream shops usually make their own using fresh Lucuma which is the best. You have to try it! 
             Finding fresh Lucuma in the US: To our knowledge commercial plantations of lucuma are mostly found in Peru and Chile. Since the lucuma fruit ripens quickly and is delicate, exporting it fresh has proven challenging so we don't it is yet available in the US. Although there are rumors that some growers in California and Hawaii are trying it or so we hope. 
                + Frozen Lucuma
              The best next option to fresh fruit is finding it frozen! Here in Florida, we discovered a great source for the frozen pulp at our local Latin American mini mart. With this fruit pulp mixed with a little vanilla ice-cream, we make yummy shakes! 
               + Lucuma ice cream
                Lucuma ice cream is a Peruvian favorite!
                In Peru, the lucuma ice cream ranks as #1 in popularity before even the well known vanilla and chocolate flavors! 
              With Peruvian food gaining popularity as one of the most flavorful and rich cuisines of the planet, Peruvian restaurants are popping everywhere. So if you happen to visit one, make sure to ask if they serve Lucuma ice-cream! 
                + Dried Organic Lucuma Powder
             The bulk of the Lucuma production is found in dehydrated form with only a small percentage reaching the local markets to be consumed fresh. Once dehydrated, the lucuma powder (or flour) is mainly sold as flavoring for ice creams and nutritional supplement. 
             Luckily today it is relatively easy to find lucuma powder in the US (and most likely also in other countries) and these are just a few online places!
                                                                                                                                                           Edited by Ho Dinh Hai
                                                                                                                                                      Long An - Vietnam
                                                                                            References
               1- http://www.worldwidefruits.com
               2- http://www.worldwidefruits.com/orders-of-plants.html
               3- http://www.worldwidefruits.com/order-ericales.html
               4- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ericales
               5- http://www.worldwidefruits.com/family-sapotaceae.html
               6- http://www.worldwidefruits.com/subfamily-chrysophylloideae.html
               7- http://www.worldwidefruits.com/genus-pouteria.html
               8- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pouteria
               9- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pouteria_lucuma
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