Question 1

What is Manilkara zapota called in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

In Sri Lanka, Manilkara zapota is most commonly called sapathilla or rata-sapathilla in Sinhala. The fruit is widely known in English as sapodilla. It is cultivated in home gardens across the low country and is a familiar sight in local markets during fruiting season.

Question 2

What does sapodilla taste like?

Accepted Answer

Ripe sapodilla has a very sweet, malty flavour often described as a blend of pear, brown sugar, and vanilla. The texture is soft and grainy, similar to a ripe pear. Unripe fruit is intensely astringent due to high tannin content and should not be eaten raw.

Question 3

What are the medicinal uses of sapodilla bark and seeds?

Accepted Answer

In Ayurvedic and folk medicine, the bark of Manilkara zapota is used as an astringent for fever and skin conditions due to its tannin content. The seeds have traditionally been used in diuretic preparations for kidney and bladder complaints. Both parts are documented in Sri Lanka's Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia, though clinical evidence for many uses is still emerging.

Question 4

Can sapodilla trees grow in Sri Lanka's dry zone?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Manilkara zapota is tolerant of drought once established and grows well in Sri Lanka's dry zone, including parts of the North Central and Northern provinces. It prefers well-drained soils and warm temperatures, and does not perform well in the island's high-elevation regions.

Question 5

How long does a sapodilla tree take to fruit?

Accepted Answer

Seed-grown sapodilla trees can take five to eight years to begin fruiting, which is why most cultivated trees in Sri Lanka are propagated by grafting or air-layering. These vegetatively propagated plants typically begin bearing fruit within two to four years. Once productive, a healthy tree can fruit twice a year.

Question 6

Is sapodilla the same as chikoo?

Accepted Answer

Yes, sapodilla (Manilkara zapota) is the same fruit known as chikoo or chiku in India and parts of South Asia. Different regions use different vernacular names for the same species. In Sri Lanka the Sinhala name sapathilla is most commonly used.

Question 7

What vitamins and minerals does sapodilla fruit contain?

Accepted Answer

Sapodilla is a reasonable source of vitamin C, folate, and pantothenic acid (vitamin B5). It also provides dietary minerals including potassium, iron, and copper. The fruit is energy-dense due to its high natural sugar content and provides dietary fibre that supports digestion.