Otaheite Apple

Photo: flickr user Cristóbal Alvarado Minic

About

The Otaheite Apple, also known as the Malay or maple apple, is an oblong or pear-shaped fruit with white flesh and dark red skin that may be eaten raw, stewed with spices, used for jellies or pickles, and made into wine.

Information

Other names: Jamaican Apple, Makopa, Malay Rose Apple

Translations: オタハイトアップル, Otaheite أبل, Taïti Apple, Otaheite 애플, Chùm Apple, Otaheite אפל, Отахеите јабука, एप्पल Otaheite, Taití Apple, Таїті Apple, Otaheite苹果, Таити Apple, Taití Apple

Physical Description

The fruit is oblong to pear shaped with a dark red skin and white flesh; sometimes it is seedless.

Colors: red, pink,

Tasting Notes

Flavors: delicate, mild to sweet

Mouthfeel: Crisp, Crunchy, Juicy

Preparation and Use

The Otaheite Apple or Malay Apple may used as a remedy for diabetes and constipation.

Social/Political

In Brazil, constipation, diabetes, headache, cough and other pulmonary complaints are treated with various parts of the otaheite apple plant. Due to their antibiotic content, the fruit, seeds, bark and leaves are said to be effective for ailments of the respiratory system and for high blood pressure.

History: The Otaheite apple or Malay apple is presumed to be a native of Malaysia. It is commonly cultivated from Java to the Philippines and Vietnam, also in Bengal and South India. Portuguese voyagers carried it from Malacca to Goa and from there it was introduced into East Africa.

In Hawaii, early missionaries said there were no fruits except bananas, coconuts and the Malay apple. The flowers are considered sacred to Pele, the fiery volcano goddess and it's wood was often used to make idols