chico tree / chico ball 1.0-1.2m

🌳 What Is a Chico Tree?

• Scientific Name: Manilkara zapota

• Also Called: Chico, sapodilla, chikoo, naseberry

• Native To: Southern Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean

• Grown In: Tropical Asia—especially the Philippines, India, and Pakistan

• Family: Sapotaceae

🍈 Chico Ball (Fruit)

• Shape & Size: Round or egg-shaped, 2–4 inches wide

• Skin: Brown, rough, and papery

• Flesh: Soft, sweet, brownish-yellow

• Seeds: 1–6 black seeds with a tiny spike

• Taste: Like brown sugar or maple syrup

🥗 How It's Used

• Food: Eaten fresh, or added to smoothies, jams, desserts, and salads

• Health: High in fiber, vitamin C, iron, and copper; helps reduce inflammation and stress

• Other: Produces chicle, a natural gum once used in chewing gum

🌿 Tree Features

• Height: 9–15 meters (can grow up to 30 meters)

• Leaves: Thick, shiny, dark green

• Flowers: Small, bell-shaped, white or light green

• Latex: White sap used to make chewing gum

🌍 Why It’s Special

• Drought-Resistant: Survives dry weather once mature

• Fruit Time: Starts bearing fruit in 5–8 years

• Lifespan: Lives for decades

• Eco-Friendly: Prevents soil erosion and supports wildlife

🌳 Extra Facts

• Size: Can reach 45 feet tall with a 40-foot spread

• Leaves & Flowers: Leaves grow at twig tips; flowers bloom all year

• Fruit Season: Spring and summer

• Trunk: Older trees have flaky bark and wide roots

🪴 Buying Info

• Comes in a pot with rich soil

• Includes expert care tips

• Great for shade, streets, and gum production