Pouteria campechiana
Canistel (Pouteria campechiana; also canistel; yellow sapote; eggfruit) is a Sapotaceae fruit plant grown for its berry. This page treats the accepted species name as canonical and uses the common name as a navigational alias.
| Canistel (Pouteria campechiana ) | |
|---|---|
| Scientific name | Pouteria campechiana |
| Genus | Pouteria |
| Family | Sapotaceae |
| Order | Ericales |
| Fruit type | Berry |
| Growth form | Evergreen tree |
| Climate and hardiness | Tropical to warm subtropical |
| Mature height | 8–20 m |
| Mature width | 6–12 m |
| Soil | Well-drained soil; adaptable but dislikes prolonged waterlogging |
| Water | Regular moisture while establishing; moderate drought tolerance once rooted |
| Sun | Full sun |
| Germination | 2–8 weeks from fresh seed; seed is short-lived |
| Years to fruit | 3–5 years grafted; longer from seed |
| Pollination | Usually self-compatible; insects visit the flowers |
| Harvest | Late autumn through spring in some subtropical regions; variable in the tropics |
Identification and description
Canistel is a Sapotaceae tree bearing yellow-orange fruit with dense, dry, sweet flesh. The texture resembles a firm custard or cooked egg yolk, giving rise to the name eggfruit.
The accepted genus, family, and order are Pouteria, Sapotaceae, and Ericales. Common names may cover related taxa; check the scientific name before transferring cultivation advice.
Growing
It is associated with warm tropical and subtropical forests and tolerates a wider range of conditions than mangosteen or durian. Give it sun, drainage, and enough water for steady growth. Pruning can keep the tree within reach and improve harvest access.
Soil
Well-drained soil; adaptable but dislikes prolonged waterlogging.
Sun and humidity
Full sun. Native habitat and airflow matter as much as light intensity; avoid enclosing humid foliage without ventilation.
Seasonal changes
Flowering and fruiting are spread by climate and cultivar. Subtropical trees often crop in the cooler season, while tropical trees may produce more than one flush. Avoid drought while fruit is filling, but keep the root zone aerated.
Propagation
Fresh seed germinates readily but does not preserve superior fruit traits. Grafting is preferred for named selections and earlier production.
Flowering, fruiting, and harvest
Late autumn through spring in some subtropical regions; variable in the tropics. Flowering and ripening are strongly affected by latitude, cultivar, rootstock, rainfall, and temperature; local records are more useful than a single universal calendar.
Fruit and uses
Eat ripe flesh fresh, often softened or chilled, or blend it into milkshakes, custards, ice cream, cakes, and preserves. The dry texture benefits from liquid or creamy accompaniments.
Photos
No verified Commons image is included yet; add one only after checking the individual file page and license.
Commentary
Growers are invited to share observations about Canistel on the talk page, especially climate, provenance, propagation method, plant age, flowering season, and fruit quality.