Canistel (Pouteria campechiana)

Family: Sapotaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Growing up to 10 m high, Pouteria campechiana or Canistel, is a tropical and subtropical fruit tree native to Central and South America. It is characterized by an open crown with mostly horizontal branches, oval and shiny bright green leaves, small scented flowers that occur in clusters of two to five, and round, orange yellow fruits with thin, tough, and waxy skin. The fruits are climacteric. It can be eaten raw or used in desserts or drinks.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

rich, sweet flavour that is somewhat reminiscent of a baked sweet potato. — The fruit is excellent when eaten raw, it can also be used in cakes, pies, ice creams, puddings etc.; It has a yellow to orange pulp that is soft and mealy in texture with a very rich, sweet flavour that is somewhat reminiscent of a baked sweet potato.; The fruit somewhat resembles the yolk of a hard-boiled egg.; It is not highly regarded by many people because it is not crispy and juicy like so many other fruits.

Habitat & North American Range

Moist or wet mixed forest, sometimes in pine forests, often on limestone, at elevations that are mostly below 1,400 metres. (Zone 10)