Family: Ebenaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Diospyros nigra, commonly known as black sapote or sapote negro, is a tropical fruit tree native to Mexico, Central America, and parts of northern South America. It is a medium to large evergreen tree with glossy, dark green leaves and small white flowers. The round fruits turn olive-green when ripe and contain soft, dark brown pulp often described as having a mild, chocolate-like flavor—earning it the nickname “chocolate pudding fruit.” Black sapote is grown in tropical and subtropical regions as a backyard fruit tree and small orchard crop. The fruit is eaten fresh or used in smoothies, desserts, and baked goods, and the tree is also valued for its attractive foliage and shade.

Risks & Threats
Although black sapote is not currently known to be naturalized in the Hawaiian Islands, it possesses traits that raise concern for tropical environments. It produces abundant fruit with viable seeds that can be dispersed by birds, mammals, and people. As a hardy evergreen tree adapted to warm climates, it could establish in suitable habitats and compete with native vegetation. In tropical island ecosystems—where native species evolved in isolation—introduced fruit trees have the potential to spread beyond cultivation, alter forest structure, and displace rare or endemic plants. Because of these risks, Plant Pono recommends choosing a low-risk or native alternative for landscaping and food production to help protect Hawaiʻi’s unique ecosystems.

High Risk Traits:

• Naturalized in South Florida, Moluccas, and Sulawesi
  
• Weedy in disturbed areas; appears on Florida control lists
  
• Present in natural areas (Florida hammocks)
  
• Congeneric weeds exist in genus Diospyros
  
• Broad climate suitability (sea level to 2000 m; some frost tolerance)
  
• Wide soil tolerance (dry, alluvial, sandy, limestone; tolerates flooding/salinity)
  
• Shade-tolerant (found in understory)
  
• Seeds dispersed by birds, monkeys, flying foxes
  
• Seeds survive gut passage
  
• Intentionally spread by people (fruit, ornamental)
  
• Resprouts after cutting
  
• Produces viable seed

Low Risk Traits:

• No spines, thorns, burrs
  
• Palatable to animals (leaves consumed)
  
• Ripe fruit edible (not toxic)
  
• Not vegetatively reproductive
  
• Long juvenile period (4+ years)
  
• No wind dispersal
  
• Large seeds not likely dispersed accidentally
  
• Not a prolific seed producer
  
• No persistent seed bank