São Tomé Peach

THIS FRUIT IS VERY RARE. São Tomé peach or pessego de São Tomé is a fruit that grows on a small tree (Chytranthus mannii) indigenous to the islands of São Tomé e Príncipe.

The tree grows in the wild, in the archipelago’s humid areas. It takes several years for the tree to bear fruit – the tree can be cultivated, but it is difficult to find a supply of saplings to plant. Due to the fact that the fruits grow on the trunk throughout the year, it makes them accessible to wild animals.

The peaches have a velvety, violet peel and are shaped like triangles. The texture and flavor are similar to those of pears. When mature, the peaches are sweet but not very fragrant. The rare São Tomé peaches are consumed fresh, but it is quite difficult to find them in local markets.