Genipa Fruit Plant (Genipa Americana)

Genipa Americana:

Botanical Name: Genipa Americana

Common Names: Jagua Azul (Mexico), Irayol (Guatemala), Brir (Costa Rica), Angelina (Colombia), Caruto (Venezuela), Arasaloe, Tapoeripa (Surinam), Palo Colorado, Huitoc (Peru), Genipaperio (Brazil)

General Information:

Family: Rubiaceae

 Native to: Tropical forests of North and South America, the Caribbean, 

Size: Small to medium-sized deciduous tree (8-20 m tall, occasionally up to 30 m)

Trunk: Tall, straight; Diameter: 30-80 cm

Crown: Dense with lower branches more or less horizontal

Edible Fruit: Harvested from the wild for local use

Wood: Utilized for good-quality wood

Medicinal Purposes: Various medicinal applications

Beverages: Fruit pulp cooked with sugar to produce syrup for beverages and desserts

Flavor: Acidic; Eaten raw or cooked

Ripeness: Best eaten when somewhat over-ripe; Softening needed.

Health Benefits:

Extracts from seeds and peels show antioxidant properties. Fruit pulp exhibits inhibitory enzymatic activity (α-glucosidase, α-amylase, lipase) and antiglycation activity. Potential: Anti-diabetic properties.

Bloom Time/Fruiting: 3 to 4 Years

Maintenance Required: Moderate