Ilama (fruit) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ilama |
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A. diversifolia
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| Annona diversifolia Saff.
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The Ilama (scientific name: Annona macroprophyllata) is a tasty fruit. It is also the name of the tree where this fruit grows. You can find Ilama trees and their fruits in the warm, tropical parts of Central America.
The name "Ilama" comes from the Spanish version of the Nahuatl word ilamatzapotl. This old word roughly means 'old woman's sapote'. A sapote is a general name for many sweet, soft fruits.
There's another fruit called cabeza de negro (A. pupurea) that is quite similar to the Ilama. People sometimes grow it instead of the cherimoya fruit. The cabeza de negro is about the same size as an Ilama. However, it has a grey-brown color and hard bumps on its skin. Inside, its flesh is orange and tastes a bit like mango or papaw.
Enjoying the Ilama Fruit
The Ilama fruit is super delicious when it's fully ripe. You can eat it in a few different ways.
How to Serve Ilama
One common way to eat Ilama is to cut it in half. Then, you can scoop out the soft fruit with a spoon. It's often served chilled, which makes it even more refreshing.
Sometimes, people add a little bit of cream and sugar to the Ilama. This can make its natural flavor even stronger and sweeter. You can also try adding a small drop of lime or lemon juice. This gives the fruit a slightly tart and bitter taste, which some people really enjoy.
