Canistel

Canistel is an evergreen tree which is also known as Yellow Sapote or Eggfruit. Fruit shape varies widely but is generally oval, sometimes pointed or curved at one end. The size ranges from 7-12 cm in length.

The fruit skin is thin, smooth and waxy, changing from green to golden yellow or yellow-orange when ripe. The ripe flesh is also bright yellow to orange. Canistel has a unique crumbly texture resembling hard-boiled egg yolk, hence the name “Eggfruit”. It tastes sweet with flavours of pumpkin and sweet potato. Seed are large and inedible.

When ripe, the skin splits at the stem end of the fruit and falls from the tree, bruising the soft flesh. To prevent spoilage, nearly ripe fruit should be removed using secateurs to avoid tearing the delicate skin.

Other uses: wood, medicine. ornamental