Milk Fruit / Star Apple (Graft) Fruit Plant

Star apple, scientifically known as Chrysophyllum cainito, is a tropical fruit tree belonging to the Sapotaceae family. It is closely related to mamey sapote and green sapote. The species is native to the Greater Antilles and the West Indies but has since spread to tropical lowlands of Central America and is now widely cultivated across tropical regions, including Southeast Asia.

This fruit is known by several regional names, such as golden-leaf tree, caimito maduraverde (Spain), caimite and caimitier (France), and cainito or ajara (Portugal).

Star apple trees come in two main varieties—purple-skinned and green-skinned types. In both varieties, the fruits remain attached to the tree when ripe and must be hand-picked at maturity. The plant is evergreen, with simple, alternate, oval leaves measuring 5–15 cm in length. Its small purplish-white flowers are fragrant and sweet-smelling. The tree is self-fertile and is known to produce a noticeable aroma during flowering.

The fruit is round, typically 2–3 inches in diameter, with smooth purple or green skin. When ripe, a faint green area may appear near the calyx. When cut in half, the translucent pulp forms a star-shaped pattern, giving the fruit its common name. The flesh is soft, aromatic, and sweet, with flavor notes reminiscent of apple, lychee, and persimmon. It is commonly eaten fresh as a dessert fruit, often served chilled.

Star Apple Benefits & Uses

Star apple is valued for its nutritional and traditional medicinal properties. The leaves are traditionally used in treatments for diabetes and joint-related rheumatism. The fruit is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, along with calcium and phosphorus, supporting immune health and overall nutrition.

The bark is considered a natural tonic and stimulant, while the fruit pulp contains phytochemicals that may help support immunity and protect against oxidative stress. It is also traditionally used to help relieve sore throats and reduce inflammation associated with respiratory conditions such as pneumonia and laryngitis.

Ground seeds are sometimes used as a tonic and natural diuretic. In certain regions, both bark-based beverages and fruit pulp preparations are used in traditional remedies for digestive issues such as diarrhea and dysentery.