Yellow Cassimiroa / White Sapote (Cassimiroa edulis) 

This variety of (yellow flesh) white sapote is made in Northland, new exciting variety for a rare plant collector. It produces very tasty, medium to large size, sweet lemony flavoured, smooth fruit. Delicious, creamy and close to a mango flavour. 

Wonderful fruit the size of an apple with a thin green skin. It’s a dwarf cassimiroa with a small tree growth habit. Heavy cropper, tastes super delicious. Need another variety nearby for pollination.

The pulp is delicious, creamy and smooth, the flavour is sweet and rich. Generally fruit is mature if it comes easily from the tree with a gentle twist, changes to a lighter colour and is slightly soft to touch. Handle gently as they bruise easily. Store in a cool spot and eat within a few days of ripening. A prolific producer.

This variety is only available in a small number and not available in any big nursery or plant shops, highly sought after variety by the exotics plant growers in Nz and overseas.

Plant Care

• Soil: Cassimiroa thrives in well-drained, fertile soils that are rich in organic matter. It can adapt to a range of soil types, from sandy to loamy, and prefers a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
• Watering: This tree requires regular watering to establish a deep and extensive root system, especially during its formative years and in dry conditions. Mature trees are moderately drought-tolerant but perform best with consistent moisture.
• Temperature: Cassimiroa is suited to mild to warm climates and is somewhat frost-tolerant. It can survive temperatures down to about -4°C once fully established, but young trees should be protected from frost. Optimal growing temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C.
• Light: Prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade. Sun exposure is crucial for healthy growth and fruit production, so ensure it receives ample sunlight throughout the day.
• Fertilising: Feed with a balanced NPK fertilizer in spring and again in mid-summer to support growth and fruit development. An additional application of potassium-rich fertilizer can enhance fruit quality.
• Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the tree. Pruning helps promote good air circulation, reduces the risk of disease, and can enhance fruit size and quality.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree to help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and provide nutrients as it decomposes. Keep the mulch away from the trunk to prevent moisture-related diseases.
• Pest Control: Cassimiroa trees are relatively pest-resistant but monitor for common pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and scales. Treat with appropriate organic or chemical controls if necessary.
• Flowering and Fruiting: Produces small, greenish-white flowers that are followed by round, yellow-green fruits that turn creamy yellow when ripe. The fruits have a sweet, custard-like flavor and are usually ready for harvest in late fall or early winter.
• Potting: Can be grown in a large container for the first few years but eventually will need to be planted in the ground to accommodate its size and root system.
• Feeding Regime: Regular applications of a balanced fertilizer during the growing season support robust growth. Supplementing with organic compost can improve soil structure and fertility, enhancing overall tree health and fruit production.