Matoa

Matoa, botanically Pometia pinnata, is a fruit tree that is native to the Pacific Islands, including Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

Matoa is known for its sweet and juicy fruit, which is very similar to the rambutan.

Common names: Matoa, Fiji longan, island lychee

Growing Matoa

The tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a spreading canopy that can extend up to 40 feet wide. It prefers well-drained soil and grows well in tropical and subtropical climates.The tree requires full sun exposure to produce fruit.

Allow a spacing of around 30 feet while planting matoa. Pruning can be done to shape the tree and remove any dead or diseased branches.

Though it can grow into a very big tree, it may be pruned to keep the size manageable.

Matoa is a fast-growing tree and can reach maturity within 3-4 years of planting. Seedlings are usually the planting material.

Fruit description

The matoa fruit is a small, round, fleshy fruit with a single seed inside. The Matoa fruit has a hard shell. The skin of the fruit is thin and leathery and is typically red or yellow when ripe. It is similar in appearance to the lychee.

The flesh is sweet and juicy, and it does not stick to the seed. It has a flavor that is similar to a combination of lychee and pineapple and is often compared to that of rambutan.

The fruit is commonly eaten fresh. It has various health benefits, including improving digestion and treating skin conditions.

Matoa is a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. It also contains various antioxidants.

The seeds are also edible. However, it is eaten cooked or roasted and not raw.

Other uses

Matoa is an important timber tree in the Pacific Islands and is used for construction, furniture, and boat-building. Matoa trees are also used for making veneers.