Egg Fruit (Pautaria Campechiana) Kerala or Indian Fruits

Egg fruit (Pautaria campechiana) also known as Canistel is a less known fruit of sapota family. Egg fruit trees that yield fruit tend to be abundantly branched, bushy and of evergreen nature. In India, egg fruit trees are found in all parts of Kerala. The 20-30 ft egg fruit trees are abundant in the Western Ghats region. The fruit are rarely sold at local markets of Kerala, although if lucky you may find some. When available, both adults and children buy the fruit as they are nice and are treated as a delicacy.

Eggfruit got its name from the fact that the fruit resembles the size and shape of an egg. The epidermis or the edible part is also somewhat like an egg yolk, both in color and texture, being very soft and easily ruptured. The fruit tends to have a large seed. When the fruit is young it tends to have a glossy appearance while becoming dull when the fruit ripens.

The feel and taste of the fruit is unique. Egg fruit is a rich source carotene, of vitamin C, vitamin A and protein. Fruit can be eaten with or without its skin. The fruits do also provide a rich flavor to milk shakes, however can be used in other cooking recipes such as soups and pies (just like using pumpkin).

There is no scientific evidence of medicinal benefits of egg fruit, however locals believe that egg fruit is very good for the body and nervous system.

Egg fruit trees do grow in a variety of soil types, ranging from sandy to clay. Loamy soil with moderate rainfall and good drainage stimulate better plant growth and better yields. Egg fruit trees are also resistant to most of plant diseases.

Propagation of egg fruit trees is mainly through seeds, where small animals and birds play a role in distribution of the seeds. While cultivating, seeds are sown immediately after separating them from the fruits.

Pautaria campechiana belongs to the family Sapotaceae.