Chrysophyllum Cainito (Purple Variety) — Star Apple
This tree is a native of the West Indies, and although not common in Hawaii, there are good specimens to be found in many gardens. It has large irregular spreading branches, grows to a height of from 10 to 25 feet, and has rather thick foliage. Propagation is ordinarily effected by seeds, which germinate readily, when fresh. It can also be grown from cuttings of the ripe wood. The tree derives its name from the words “chrysos,” gold, and “phyllon,” a leaf; referring to the golden-russet color of the underside of the beautiful, glossy green leaves. The small flowers, which appear from June until October, are solitary at the nodes or in fascicles. The fruit, which ripens in April, is round, about 3 inches in diameter, has a smooth, tough rind, about 1-16th inch thick, which is a deep purple in color. A cross-section of the fruit shows the edible pulp with its numerous black seeds, and the star-shaped core, from which the fruit derives its common name of Star Apple. Unless the fruit is thoroughly ripe, its milky juice is remarkably astringent.