The mamey sapote (Pouteria sapota) is a species of tree that is native to southern Mexico. Today, the tree is cultivated not only in Mexico, but also in Central America, the Caribbean, and South Florida for its melon, which is commonly eaten in many Latin American countries. Mamey sapote is a large and highly ornamental evergreen tree that can reach a height of 15 to 45 meters (60 to 140 feet) at maturity. Like most fruit trees, it is mainly propagated by grafting, which ensures that the new plant has the same characteristics as the parent, especially its fruit. It is also considerably faster than growing trees by seed. The melon is about 10 to 25 cm (4 to 10 inches) long and 8 to 12 cm (3 to 5 inches) wide and has orange flesh. The melon is eaten raw out of hand or made into milkshakes, smoothies, ice cream and fruit bars. The melon's flavor is variously described as a combination of pumpkin, sweet potato, candied yams, maraschino cherries with the texture of an avocado. Some consider the melon to be an ...
