Green Caimito, Star Apple (Chrysophyllum cainito)
GRAFTED! The Green Caimito, or Green Star Apple, is a tropical evergreen fruiting tree/shrub from South and Central America’s lowland jungles. It is a gorgeous ornamental tree, bearing glossy green leaves with bronze undersides. It is the green-skinned version of the all-star Caimito and is a member of the Sapotaceae family, related to Sapodilla and Canistel. Given the name “Star Fruit” because of its star-shaped center when cut in half, it is a delight for the eyes and the tastebuds! When soft to the touch, the fruit is ripe and ready to try! Discard the green, inedible latex skin, and cut the fruit in half to expose the inside, bearing a richly-sweet flesh with juicy, purple pulp and black seeds. Reminiscent of blueberries and lychee, it has a jelly-like texture and tastes great, especially when chilled!
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Chrysophyllum cainito |
| Common Names | Star Apple, Cainito, Milky Fruit, Caimito, Hipolito Star Apple |
| Family | Sapotaceae |
| Origin | Caribbean, Central & South America |
| Plant Type | Tropical Evergreen Fruiting Tree/Shrub |
| Life Cycle | Perennial |
| Mature Size | Up to 100 ft. tall (generally 65 ft. tall) |
| Light | Full Sun, Part Shade |
| Water Needs | Moderate |
| Soil | Rich, well-draining soil |
| Bloom Time | Spring to Early Summer |
| Flower Color | Greenish-Cream |
| USDA Zones | Outdoors 9–11 with frost protection; Patio/Greenhouse 4+ |
| Florida Native | No |
| Propagation | Grafted (our trees are grafted and capable of fruiting within ~4 years) |
| Seasonal Traits | Evergreen |
| Growth Rate | Medium |
| Self-Fertile | Yes |
| Harvest Season | Spring – Early Summer |
| Time to Harvest | ~4 Years (grafted trees) |
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