Hortiforum

General Info – Matisia, Chupa-chupa, South American Sapote

Known for its distinctive fibrous and juicy fruit, the Matisia is a captivating and unique addition to any tropical garden.
Matisia produce large ovular fruits with a thick, leathery brown skin, ranging in size from 200-500g. The vibrant orange pulp of Matisia is remarkably juicy, albeit somewhat stringy and fibrous. Extracting the sweet pulp demands effort, yet the task itself can be enjoyable and satisfying. The suction needed to separate the pulp and juices from the fibres has bestowed upon Matisia the common name ‘Chupa-Chupa,’ with ‘Chupa’ being the Spanish word for ‘suck’. Flavour is a very agreeable tropical blend of Mango, Rockmelon, Apricot, Papaya and Mamey Sapote, that is a delightful consumed fresh but can also be juiced. Matisia ripen from late summer to autumn and continue to mature and soften even after being picked.
Originating from the tropical rainforest lowlands of Peru, Ecuador, and Brazil, this tree thrives in environments characterised by year-round heat, abundant rainfall, and high humidity. While it can tolerate subtropical climates, protection from winter cold is often necessary. Matisia belongs to the Malvaceae family, alongside other intriguing tropical fruits like Kola Nut, Durian, Boab, and Cupuassu. Matisia thrive in a slightly acidic to neutral, deep loam soil that is fertile, moisture-retentive and freely draining. Native to tropical rainforests, Matisia thrives in filtered shade during its early stages and gradually transitions to full sun, necessitating protection from wind in its youth. As a swiftly growing tree, it matures into a robust specimen with a expansive protective canopy, making it an ideal companion for understory trees such as Coffee or Dwarf Avocado.
As a fast-growing canopy tree, the Matisia can reach heights of up to 40m in its native habitat, although it typically stays under 15m when cultivated. The semi-deciduous foliage of Matisia is ornamental, boasting broad, heart-shaped leaves clustered at the ends of branches, reminiscent in appearance to a Tamarillo. The flowering pattern is cauliflorous, occurring along the main stem and branches. The greenish-cream coloured flowers exhibit a distinctive form, featuring protruding hairy stamens.
A special addition to any food forest, the Matisia stands out as both distinctive and delicious, making it a valuable and unique fruit-bearing tree for enthusiasts of exotic fruits.

Plant Profile/Properties