Black Sapote

Overview

Black sapote is a persimmon relative with glossy leaves and green fruit that ripens into soft, dark brown flesh with a mild, sweet, pudding-like texture.

History

Native to Mexico and Central America.

Growing on Kauaʻi

• Best in warm lowland sites with steady moisture.
• Tolerates wetter soils than many fruit trees.

Planting and propagation

• Grafted trees bear sooner and more reliably.
• Plant in rich soil and mulch well.

Care and maintenance

• Prune to shape when young.
• Water during dry spells.

Role in the guild

A large canopy fruit tree for warm lowland guilds.

Harvest

Pick fruit when it turns from shiny dark green to dull olive-green, then let it soften at room temperature until very soft. Unripe fruit is bitter and astringent.

Uses

• Food: fresh with a spoon, in smoothies, desserts, and baking.

Problems to watch

• Fruit flies on ripe fruit.

General guidance for Kauaʻi; conditions vary by site. Check any new plant at plantpono.org before planting.