Botanical name:Manilkara zapota

Description: Native to the Caribbean islands, this large and handsome tree gives shade with the added benefit of fruit. The fruits are dropping now from our sapodilla, and their brown skin splits open to reveal a light-colored flesh and black seeds.

From coastal Central America and Mexico, the sapodilla is a strong tree with a dense round canopy that has survived many a hurricane in South Florida. Sap of the tree is called chicle, and once was used to make chewing gum (Remember Chiclets?). The leaves are leathery and pointed, and have a tendency to occur in whorls; fruits taste like pears with cinnamon.

Trees begin to bear within five to seven years. There are several cultivars (plant a grafted tree if you are interested in the fruit), and fruit may be eaten fresh or used to make ice cream. The Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council says the tree is occasionally found in natural areas in hammocks and disturbed sites in Lee and Palm Beach counties.

Height: 40-plus feet.

Light: full sun

Culture: Adaptable to various soil conditions, the sapodilla likes moist, fertile soil and good drainage, but can take drought and our poor soils with help from fertilizer. A young tree may be killed in 30- to 32-degree cold snaps, so plant in spring or early summer to give the youngster a chance to put out roots and sustain some growth. This is a big tree; don't attempt to grow it in a small, cramped yard.