Abiu Frut Trees – Wholesale

Abiu (pourteria caimito) Abiu, Plant Profile

Abiu are a tropical to sub-tropical fruit native to the amazon rainforest sometimes called the ‘The Creme Caramel Fruit’.

Mature plants will grow to reach 10m and more. Grown in Australia in the Northern parts of Queensland as well as in the Northern Territory, Abiu (pouteria caimito) has potential as a commercial crop. Common names include ‘Caimo’ and ‘Cauje’ although these are seldom used.

The tree is evergreen  and the fruit rounded and yellow to orange in colour.

The fruit  is of a caramel flavour with a sticky layer of latex type texture close to the skin. The fruit are round and eaten raw (chilled) or with ice-cream. (avoid the latex layer as it is very sticky).

A number of Abiu varieties are available in Australia, many developed in Australia. These include – Inca Gold, Cape Oasis, Gray as well as Z2, Z3 and Z4. Some perform better in different areas. Look for proven cutting grown trees that have a track record in your area for good fruit production.

Care

These are a heavy fruiting tree that are regarded as relatively pest and care free, a rapid growing tree that will bear good fruit quantities in 2 – 3 years from grafted varieties, a few years longer from seedlings.

Although the main fruiting period is during the warmer months of the year they will fruit sporadically through cooler months, but inly in the sub tropical to tropical areas.

Abiu are now grown commercially in Australia and are available in some fruit shops, however as shelf life is not long transport to markets can be problematical.

• Grow in full sun.
• Choose a position protected from strong winds.
• Good moisture is required for strong and constant fruit production.
• Irrigation is recommended in most area.

Abiu trees are available for sale from the following nurseries.