Sapodilla Tree (Chikoo)

Hindi Name –  Chikoo

Sanskrit Name – Vikkotam,  Gudaaluh 

Botanical Name –  Manilkara zapota

Sapodilla tree is a small evergreen tree. Sapodilla is widely available in south-Asian countries. Sapodilla heights up to 80 feet, & diameter 15-20 inches.

Sapodilla can be grown by seed or by grafting. Sapodilla plant gets ready in five to six years. Sapodilla tree flourishes well in hot conditions.

Sapodilla Tree leaves are three to four inches long & one inch wide. Leaves have round edges & with a glossy surface in green colour. The bark is light grey in colour.  

Blooming of Sapodilla takes place several times in a period of twelve years & harvest can be taken twice a year. Sapodilla grows well in soil drain condition.

Sapodilla is an egg-shaped fruit & in a sand colour with a sweet taste & it is light to digest. The pulp of Sapodilla is white initially, it releases sticky whitish liquid latex. When it matures its pulp changes colour to brown.

Sapodilla fruit can be kept at a cool temperature for long use though it is recommended to consume it fresh. Sapodilla tastes sweet with a grainy feel in the pulp.

Sapodilla fruit is a good source of nutrition with vitamins A & C. Sapodilla has rich antioxidants. Antioxidants present in the Sapodilla slow the wrinkle process & make skin soft. Sapodilla is an energy booster due to the presence of fructose.

Sapodilla fruit is consumed raw & its milkshake is very good for health.

Gujarat, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu are the major producer of sapodilla in India.