Star Apple

Botanical Name: Chrysophyllum cainito
Common Names: Star Apple, Caimito, Milk Fruit

Star Apple is a unique tropical fruit tree from Central America and the Caribbean that thrives in warm, protected Perth microclimates. The fruit is sweet and creamy with a translucent, jelly-like pulp, and reveals a distinct star pattern when cut in half. It's ideal for backyard growers who want something exotic, ornamental, and highly sought after for its delicious fruit.

Features:

Ideal prune height range: 3-5m

pH growing conditions: 5.5 to 6.5

Shade or full sun: Prefers full sun with wind protection in Perth Metro

Minimum pot year 5: 60-80L pot

Time to fruit age: 5-8 years from seed.

Star Apple trees are fast-growing in warm weather and visually striking. They produce glossy dark green leaves with shimmering coppery-gold undersides, followed by small purple or green round fruit. The tree is frost-sensitive when young and enjoys warm, humid summers with regular watering and well-draining soil. Star Apple can be grown in large pots or directly in the ground in a sheltered spot, making it a great choice for urban gardens.

Interesting Notes:
Star Apple fruit is known for its health benefits, being rich in antioxidants, calcium, and vitamin C. The chilled flesh is best scooped straight out of the skin with a spoon, and its gorgeous two-tone foliage makes it a standout feature tree even when not fruiting.

Star Apple is a favourite of rare fruit collectors and is a great tree to add to any food forest.

Limited stock. Pickup from Parkwood, WA. Delivery to Perth Metro only.

Keywords: Star Apple, rare fruit tree, tropical fruit tree Perth, backyard fruit tree, exotic fruit tree