What is monkeyapple?

Monkey apple, also known as Solanum mammosum, is a small tropical fruit that grows on a shrub or small tree native to Central and South America. It is also found in the Caribbean and parts of Africa. The fruit is approximately the size of a golf ball and has a shape that resembles a breast or teardrop. Its skin is green and turns yellow as it ripens. When ripe, the fruit has a sweet and slightly sour taste.

The monkey apple is a nutritious fruit that is rich in vitamins C and B6, as well as potassium, calcium, and iron. In traditional medicine, the fruit has been used to treat respiratory problems, high blood pressure, and fever. The leaves of the plant are also used in herbal remedies to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

The monkey apple is not as well-known as other tropical fruits such as mango, pineapple, or papaya, but it is still consumed in some tropical regions. It can be eaten fresh, used in jams or preserves, or made into a juice. However, the fruit contains solanine which can cause an upset stomach or even poison in large quantities, so it should be consumed in moderation and only when fully ripe.