Chrysophyllum cainito (Star Apple)

Originating in Central America, this plant is an evergreen fruit tree widely cultivated in the tropics. Its rounded to oval crown has drooping branches. Alternate, slightly leathery leaves are glossy green above and golden brown beneath. Small, greenish-yellow to purplish-white tubular flowers grow in clusters in the leaf axils. The smooth-skinned fruits may be purple or pale green, with soft, sweet, milky pulp surrounding the seeds. When cut crosswise, the seed chambers radiate from a central core to form a star-shaped pattern. Ripe fruit is eaten fresh or used in fruit salads and sorbets; the peel and rind are inedible. Ripe fruits remain attached to the tree. Photographed in Colombia.