Matt Snow Black Sapote Tree (Height: 3 - 4 FT)
The black sapote tree is an attractive, evergreen tree with dense foliage. The branches grow little green to white flowers with oblong, leathery leaves. The trees produce a sweet fruit 2-6 inches in diameter that is similar to the shape of a tomato. The unusual fruit has green outer skin and dark pulp inside. The pulp is described to have the consistency and texture of chocolate pudding. Although there are differences in opinions regarding the flavor, some say that it tastes like sweet chocolate pudding as well. Native to Central America, these trees grow tall in tropical outdoor climates. When planted in the ground, black sapote trees can reach heights of 40 feet. These trees bear fruit from late fall to mid-winter and are heavy bearers—one tree can produce more than a hundred pounds of fruit per season. Black sapote trees are commonly grown as houseplants or kept as outdoor patio plants in warmer climates. The USDA recommends that these trees be grown in zones 10 and 11. The high exposure to sunlight, warm temperatures, and high humidity are all contributing factors to the optimal growth of a black sapote tree.