Toronchi
Vasconcellea chrysopetala

Family: Caricaceae

What it is like

A vigorous plant. It grows 5 m high. Plants often have several branches. Plants are separately male and female. The fruit is like babaco but slightly curved. They are produced right down the trunk of the plant. The seed are embedded in the flesh of the fruit. They can have few seeds. The fruit can be 10-15 cm long. Fruit are smooth skinned.

It is probably a hybrid between Carica pubescens and Carica monoica. There are at least 22-40 species of Carica. It has 21-32 mg/100g of Vitamin C.

Where it is found

Plants need rich, well-drained soil. It has little frost tolerance. It is best in warmer climates.

Countries/locations it is found in

Ecuador, South America

How it is used for food

The fruit are eaten fresh or preserved in syrup. They can be used for jams, pie fillings and pickles.

Edible parts

Fruit

How it is grown

Plants are easily grown from seed.

Plants can produce fruit after 1-2 years. A fruit can weigh 500 g.

Its other names

Local names

Chamburo, Higacho

Synonyms

A natural hybrid; Vasconcellea;