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ABAM FRUIT (CHRYSOPHYLLUM LACOURTIANUM): A RARE AFRICAN DELICACY FOR THE TROPICAL FRUIT LOVER’S GARDEN
The Abam Fruit, botanically known as Chrysophyllum lacourtianum, is a towering, evergreen fruit tree native to the heart of Central and West Africa — notably found in Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, and the Central African Republic. Known locally by the names Abam, Longhi, and Longhi Rouge, this impressive tree with its spreading crown is both culturally important and nutritionally rewarding. Highly valued in local markets, the Abam fruit is celebrated for its deep color, sticky-sweet flavor, and traditional use in rural African diets.
Grows as a large evergreen tree reaching heights up to 40 meters in its native environment.
Features a wide, spreading crown, making it a majestic presence in any fruit garden.
Produces apple-shaped fruits ranging from dark red to orange, with a firm, yet juicy pulp.
It starts fruiting typically within 3 to 5 years of proper cultivation.
Adaptable to tropical climates, with preference for deep, fertile soil and consistent warmth.
The taste of Abam fruit is a delight for those who enjoy tropical fruits with a blend of sweetness and slight acidity:
The fruit has a sticky, sweet to subacid pulp that’s soft and juicy.
It is often enjoyed raw, straight from the tree.
Traditionally eaten by punching a hole at one end and sucking out the pulp, a unique method that reflects local cultural practice.
The pulp may also be salted and paired with starchy foods like cassava or boiled plantain, creating a balanced and filling meal.
The flavor has been described as a cross between an overripe apple and sapote, with a tangy depth that lingers gently on the palate.
Abam fruit is not just appreciated for its taste but also for its nutritional value and natural health benefits:
Rich in natural sugars – provides quick energy and sustenance.
High fiber content – supports digestion and promotes gut health.
Contains essential minerals like calcium, potassium, and iron.
Antioxidant-rich – helps combat oxidative stress and promotes cellular health.
Its slightly subacid nature aids digestion and may help in balancing blood sugar levels when consumed moderately.
Due to its traditional consumption with starchy staples, it also supports energy balance in physically active communities.
Sunlight: Requires full sun for healthy growth and maximum fruit production.
Soil: Prefers deep, well-drained, fertile soil enriched with organic matter.
Watering: Moderate watering is essential, especially during dry seasons.
Pruning: Occasional pruning helps in shaping the tree and encouraging fruiting.
Fruiting period: Begins within 3–5 years under tropical growing conditions.
Maintenance level: Moderate. It requires some care during the early stages but becomes more self-sustaining as it matures.
Ideal for tropical and subtropical gardens, this tree is best suited for open spaces due to its size and expansive canopy.
The Abam fruit holds deep cultural roots in the communities where it grows:
In rural African regions, the tree is considered a gift of the forest, with its fruits being a common offering in local markets.
The tree also contributes to local forest ecosystems, providing shade and habitat for wildlife.
Some communities use the tree’s timber for local construction and woodworking due to its strength and availability.
Traditionally, the fruit is shared among families during harvest seasons, marking it as a symbol of abundance and communal sharing.
It is not merely a fruit but a cultural staple, particularly for those who rely on forest resources for daily sustenance.
To extend the enjoyment of Abam fruit:
Fresh consumption is recommended for optimal taste and texture.
Can be stored in a cool place or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
The pulp may be frozen and later used in traditional recipes or desserts.
In some households, the fruit is sun-dried or salted, allowing it to be stored for longer periods and paired with cooked meals.
This adaptability makes it both a fresh delicacy and a preserved provision.
Adds a unique and towering presence to any tropical garden or orchard.
Offers nutritious, flavorful fruit that is still relatively rare outside of Africa.
Easy to maintain once established, with fruit that provides both taste and nourishment.
Brings a slice of African heritage and biodiversity into your green space.
A conversation starter and a prized addition for any collector of rare and exotic fruit plants.
Its presence in your garden will not only yield delicious fruit but also honor the agricultural traditions of ancient African communities.
At Veliyath Gardens, we are proud to introduce the Abam Fruit Tree (Chrysophyllum lacourtianum) as part of our curated collection of rare and tropical fruit plants. This tree is more than a plant—it is a living piece of cultural history, offering rich flavor, nutritional value, and botanical beauty.
Bring home the Abam tree and let its fruit sweeten your meals, its leaves shade your soil, and its presence inspire your connection with nature.
Make your garden meaningful. Choose Abam. Available now at Veliyath Gardens.
