Homonym: Manilkara zapota (Sapodilla)
Manilkara zapota, commonly known as sapodilla, is a tropical fruit tree native to Central America and the Caribbean. It produces sweet, brown, and grainy fruit that is often eaten fresh or used in desserts. The tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and has glossy, dark green leaves.
The sapodilla fruit is rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to the diet. The tree is also valued for its latex, known as chicle, which was historically used to make chewing gum. Chicle is derived from the sap of the tree and has cultural significance in various regions.