Lulo Fruit Full Information

 

  The Lulo fruit, also known as Naranjilla, is a tropical fruit native to South America, particularly Colombia and Ecuador. Here's a detailed overview of this unique fruit:

Description

• Appearance: The Lulo fruit is round, about 2-4 cm (0.8-1.6 inches) in diameter, with a thin, yellow-orange skin that is easily broken or cut. The pulp inside is a vibrant orange color with a tart flavor similar to a lemon or lime.

• Leaves and Stems: The plant has large, elongated heart-shaped leaves up to 50 cm in length, covered in short purple hairs.

Flavor and Taste

• Taste: The Lulo fruit has a sweet and sour taste, often described as a mix of lime and rhubarb. Some people also compare its flavor to a citrus tart.

• Uses: The fruit is often used in juices, jams, jellies, and other dishes. It can be added to salads, desserts, smoothies, and even cooked with meats and vegetables.

Nutritional Benefits

• Rich in Nutrients: Lulo is rich in beta carotenes, carotenoids, and other essential vitamins and minerals.

• Health Benefits: It helps maintain gastrointestinal health, boosts immunity, improves vision, and promotes heart health.

Origin and History

• Geography: Lulo is native to the low mountains of western South America. It was first mentioned in the 17th century in Ecuador and Colombia.

• Cultural Significance: The Incas cultivated Lulo and referred to it as "lulum". It has been a staple in many traditional recipes in South America.

Growing Conditions

• Climate: Lulo thrives in tropical climates and grows best in partial shade with warm temperatures.

• Care: The plant is sensitive to strong winds and direct sunlight and requires well-drained, rich organic soil.

Challenges in Cultivation

• Fragility: The fruit is very delicate and easily damaged, making it hard to ship and limiting its availability outside South America.

• Commercial Production: While it has potential as a new flavoring for the global food industry, its fragile nature presents challenges for large-scale cultivation.

Interesting Facts

• World's Fair: The Lulo fruit was first presented to the Western Hemisphere at the New York World's Fair in 1939.

• Varieties: There are different varieties of Lulo, including those with spines, spineless ones, and a variety known as baquicha, which features red-ripening fruits and smooth leaves.