Abiu Fruit Live Plants ( Pouteria Caimito )

Common Name: Besides being known as Abiu, this fruit is also commonly referred to                                   as the Golden Star Apple.

Botanical Name: The botanical name for the Abiu tree is Pouteria caimito.

Origin: The Abiu, or Golden Star Apple, is native to the Amazonian region of South America. This fruit is known by different names across various regions—Temare in Venezuela, Caimito in Colombia, Luma or Cauje in Ecuador, Abieiro or Caimito in Brazil, and Yellow Sapote or Yellow Star Apple in Trinidad. The fruit is believed to be indigenous to the headwaters of the Amazon, growing wild in the lower eastern Andes from southwestern Venezuela to Peru, and is also prevalent in regions such as Iquitos, Tingo Maria in Peru, the Province of Guayas in Ecuador, and the northern Brazilian state of Pará. It is abundant in the Colombian areas of Meta, Caquetá, and Vaupés, as well as in Venezuela's Amazonas region.

Fruit Characteristics: Abiu fruits vary from spherical to oval shapes, often featuring a pointed distal end. The flesh of the fruit is creamy, jelly-like, and has a delightful caramel-like sweetness. The semi-transparent pulp has a custard-like consistency, making it easy to scoop out with a spoon, and the seeds are easily removable. When ripe, the fruit turns a bright yellow, signaling its sweet, delectable taste.

Nutritional Benefits: The Abiu fruit is a powerhouse of essential nutrients, including calcium, phosphorus, vitamin A, and vitamin C. It is also a rich source of vitamin B3 (niacin), which is beneficial for the skin, digestive system, and central nervous system. In addition, the fruit contains significant amounts of riboflavin, thiamin, iron, and fiber, making it a highly nutritious choice. Its high fiber content supports digestive health, helping to alleviate bowel and digestive issues, while also promoting weight loss.

Bloom Time/Fruiting: Abiu trees typically begin bearing fruit within 2 to 3 years of planting.

Maintenance Required: The Abiu tree is a moderately low-maintenance plant. This evergreen, perennial tree can reach heights of 5 to 15 meters and features short-petioled, green, alternate leaves that are oblong to lanceolate in shape, measuring 10 to 25 cm in length and 40 to 55 mm in width.

Health Benefits: The Abiu fruit offers a variety of health benefits, largely due to its high nutrient content. Rich in fiber, it supports digestive health and helps in weight management. The fruit's antimicrobial properties, which include antifungal, antibacterial, antitumor, antipyretic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory effects, add to its appeal as a functional food. These benefits make Abiu not just a delicious tropical treat, but also a valuable addition to a healthy diet.

Culinary Uses: The Abiu fruit is typically consumed fresh, with the flesh scooped out or cut into segments and added to fruit salads. Its sweet, creamy texture also makes it an excellent ingredient for making ice cream and juice, offering a versatile culinary experience.

In summary, the Abiu tree is a remarkable addition to any tropical fruit garden, combining low maintenance with an abundance of health benefits and culinary possibilities. Its rich nutritional profile and unique flavor make it an exotic fruit worth exploring.