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sevenyear apple

Scientific Name: Casasia clusiifolia

Family: Rubiaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Tree, Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Seven-Year Apple (Casasia clusiifolia or Genipa clusiifolia)

The Seven-Year Apple is a subject of much discussion, primarily regarding the taste of its fruit. While some find it palatable, others find it unappealing, and its appearance can also be a deterrent for some.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text mentions the fruit is edible, but also that it may be 'disgusting' to some.

Considerations for Children

  • The text mentions the fruit is edible, but also that it may be 'disgusting' to some.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Names: Casasia clusiifolia (Jacq.) Urb., Genipa clusiifolia.
  • Common Name: Seven-Year Apple.
  • Family: Rubiaceae (Madder family).
  • Synonyms: Genipa clusaefolia (misspelling)
  • Casasia is a genus of flowering plants in the Rubiaceae family.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to Florida and the West Indies, including the Bahamas.
  • In Florida, it is primarily found along the coasts of South Florida, including the Florida Keys, north to Broward County. It is rarely found in the southern third of Florida.

Morphology and Growth Habits

  • Grows as a medium shrub, reaching up to 4 meters (approximately 16 feet) in height. It can also grow as a small tree.
  • Leaves are arranged oppositely, simple, obovate, and glossy, with rounded apices and rolled-under margins.
  • Features axillary clusters of white, pink-tipped, fragrant flowers.
  • Fruits are lemon-shaped and turn brown when ripe. They develop slowly, taking about a year to mature.
  • Glossy, leathery foliage is clustered near the branch tips.

General Uses

  • Can be used as an accent or specimen shrub or small tree, particularly along the coast.
  • Suitable for buffer plantings.
  • Widely cultivated.

Quirky Facts

  • Despite its name, the Seven-Year Apple does not take seven years for its fruit to mature; it takes approximately one year.
  • It is neither an apple nor does it take seven years

Additional Information

  • Reference is made to Dave's Garden, a community forum for sharing gardening tips and ideas.