Chrysophyllum cainito
Star apple (Chrysophyllum cainito; also known as star apple) is a Sapotaceae fruit plant grown for its fruit. The accepted scientific name is used as the canonical page title.
| Star apple (Chrysophyllum cainito) | |
|---|---|
| Scientific name | Chrysophyllum cainito |
| Genus | Chrysophyllum |
| Family | Sapotaceae |
| Order | Ericales |
| Growth and size | Evergreen tree; 8–20 m |
| Climate and site | Deep fertile soil with drainage; warm humid to seasonally dry tropics |
| Propagation | Fresh seed 2–6 weeks; grafting for selected trees |
| Fruit and harvest | Warm-season crop; purple or green fruit with star-patterned flesh |
Identification and description
Star apple is a glossy evergreen tree whose cut fruit shows a star-shaped arrangement of carpels. Purple and green forms differ in skin and flavor, but both prefer warmth and a protected site.
The accepted genus, family, and order are Chrysophyllum, Sapotaceae, and Ericales.
Growing
Deep fertile soil with drainage; warm humid to seasonally dry tropics. Provide airflow and avoid standing water unless the species is being grown in a deliberately wet habitat.
Soil
Deep fertile soil with drainage; warm humid to seasonally dry tropics; preserve native drainage and organic-matter conditions rather than treating all tropical fruit trees alike.
Sun and humidity
Most plants in this group prefer bright light; young trees may need shelter while roots establish. Humidity should be paired with airflow, not stagnant enclosure.
Seasonal changes
Flowering and harvest vary with local wet/dry or cool/warm cycles. Adjust irrigation to the species' native rhythm and protect warm-tropical plants during cool weather.
Propagation
Fresh seed 2–6 weeks; grafting for selected trees. Seedlings may vary in fruit quality and maturity; use grafting or other clonal methods when a named selection must be preserved.
Flowering, fruiting, and harvest
Warm-season crop; purple or green fruit with star-patterned flesh. Local climate, cultivar, rootstock, pollination, and rainfall can shift the calendar substantially.
Fruit and uses
The ripe fruit is eaten fresh and may be used in drinks, preserves, desserts, or regional savory preparations. Handle ripe fruit carefully because many tropical fruits soften rapidly after harvest.
Photos
No image is included until an individual Wikimedia Commons file can be checked for subject accuracy and license.
Commentary
Growers are welcome to share observations on the talk page, including climate, provenance, propagation method, plant age, flowering, fruiting, and growing conditions.