Abiu

Tropical fruit tree, normally around 10 m high (maximal 35 m). Leaves from oblong to elliptical, 10-20 cm long, 3-6 cm wide. Ripe fruits with smooth, bright yellow skin, 1-4 seeds. Fruits edible: sweet, mild taste, strong hint of caramel and vanilla. Often used in ice cream or eaten out of hand.

Native to the Amazonian region of South America.

The fruits are used to relieve cough, bronchitis and respiratory complaints. Tree sap is believed to help as de-worming medication and heals swollen wounds.

Mature abiu trees produce 100-1000 fruits per year. Abiu is related (same family) to the “miracle fruit” (Synsepalum dulcificum), known for its taste-changing characteristic (from sour to sweet).