Star apple facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Chrysophyllum cainito |
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The star apple (Chrysophyllum cainito) is a delicious fruit that grows on trees. It gets its name because when you cut it in half, the seeds inside look like a star! This fruit is also known by other names like caimito or milk fruit. It is completely safe to eat and is not poisonous.
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Where Do Star Apples Grow?
Star apple trees originally come from the Caribbean islands and Central America. Today, you can find them growing in many warm, tropical places around the world. They need a lot of sunshine and a warm climate to grow well.
What Does a Star Apple Look Like?
Star apples are usually round or oval-shaped, about the size of an apple.
- The skin can be purple or green, and it's smooth and shiny.
- Inside, the fruit has a soft, juicy pulp that can be white or purple.
- It has a sweet, mild taste, often compared to a mix of apple and lychee.
- The most interesting part is the star shape formed by the seeds when you cut the fruit across its middle.
The Star Apple Tree
The tree itself is quite beautiful. It can grow very tall, sometimes up to 50 feet (15 meters) high. Its leaves are green on top and have a shiny, golden-brown color underneath, which makes the tree look special when the wind blows.
How to Enjoy Star Apples
Star apples are best eaten fresh. Many people like to chill them before eating.
- You can cut the fruit in half and scoop out the pulp with a spoon.
- Some people enjoy them in fruit salads or smoothies.
- It's important not to eat the skin or the seeds, as they are not meant to be eaten.
History of the Star Apple
The star apple has been enjoyed for hundreds of years in its native regions. It was first officially described by a famous scientist named Carl Linnaeus in 1753. This means it has a long history of being a popular and valued fruit.
Images for kids
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Leaves of the star apple tree
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Fruits, usually purple, are also available in green or red
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A cainito fruit cut in half, showing the star shape
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Freshly picked cainitos
See also
In Spanish: Caimito para niños
