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Located in Melbourne Australia, we are White Sapote enthusiasts

Hello! I’m Nick, a dedicated gardener from Melbourne, Australia. Over the past year or two I’ve developed a keen interest in white sapote. I have been growing and collecting various varieties for over 12 months now. In our warm temperate growing zone 9b, we’re cultivating an ever-expanding range of white sapote types.

Navigating the wealth of information available about white sapote can be overwhelming. Our goal is to offer clear and detailed guidance on every aspect of growing this plant, from germination and raising seedlings to grafting, plant care, fruiting, and harvesting.

I believe the allure of the white sapote lies in its rarity. It’s hard to come by, and few people I know have a tree planted. Yet, nearly everyone who has tasted the fruit claims it’s their favourite, or at least one of their top favourites. Having only recently tasted my first white sapote fruit, I find the flavour similarly delightful.

As we continue to learn more about white sapote, we aim to expand our knowledge base and share it with you. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out – we’re here to help!

Who first introduced White Sapote to Australia?

Francis T. Bergin was a nurseryman and horticulturist who played a significant role in introducing various exotic plants to Australia in the 19th century. His introduction of the white sapote (Casimiroa edulis) to Australia in 1851 marked a notable contribution to the diversity of fruit crops in the country.

Bergin brought seeds of the white sapote from Mexico, where the fruit is indigenous. Upon arrival in Australia, he planted these seeds in the Royal Botanic Garden in Sydney. This garden, established in 1816, was a central hub for botanical experimentation and the acclimatisation of new plant species in Australia. The introduction of the white sapote was part of a broader effort during this period to diversify Australia’s agricultural and horticultural resources by importing and cultivating plants from various parts of the world.

The white sapote is a fruit-bearing tree in the Rutaceae family, known for its sweet, custard-like fruit. Its successful introduction and cultivation in Australia demonstrated the adaptability of the species to the local climate, particularly in regions with warm temperate to subtropical conditions. Over time, the white sapote has become a well-regarded fruit tree among Australian gardeners and orchardists, appreciated for its tasty fruit and ornamental value.

Who introduced different varieties of White Sapote to Australia and when?

After the initial introduction of white sapote by Francis T. Bergin in 1851, further efforts were made to introduce different varieties of the fruit to Australia, enhancing its cultivation and popularity. Notable contributions in this regard were made by individuals and institutions focused on horticultural development.

Joseph Maiden: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Joseph Maiden, a prominent Australian botanist and the director of the Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney, played a crucial role in the introduction and dissemination of various plant species, including different varieties of white sapote. His work in plant acclimatisation helped broaden the genetic diversity of white sapote in Australia.
Early 20th Century Importations: During the early 20th century, various agricultural experiment stations and botanical gardens in Australia sought to diversify their fruit collections. This period saw the introduction of additional white sapote varieties from regions like Central and South America. These efforts were often collaborative, involving botanists and horticulturists who exchanged seeds and grafting material.
Post-WWII Developments: After World War II, there was a renewed interest in exotic fruit cultivation. Horticulturists and agricultural researchers introduced new white sapote varieties to Australia to enhance fruit quality, yield, and disease resistance. This era saw the introduction of cultivars such as ‘Pike’, ‘Suebelle’, and ‘Rainbow’.
Horticultural Societies and Enthusiasts: Over the years, horticultural societies and individual enthusiasts played significant roles in importing and propagating different varieties of white sapote. These efforts often involved sourcing seeds and scions from international nurseries and botanical gardens, thereby introducing new genetic material into Australia.

The introduction of different varieties of white sapote to Australia was a gradual process involving multiple contributors over several decades. The collaborative efforts of botanists, horticulturists, and plant enthusiasts have led to the rich diversity of white sapote varieties available in Australia today.

Where to buy White Sapote plants in Australia

We have recently begun stocking white sapote seedlings as well as some top quality advanced young grafted varieties.

We’re fortunate to have several nurseries across Australia offering a variety of white sapote plants. We recommend purchasing grafted varieties, which are true to type and typically fruit within 2-3 years. Alternatively, you can opt for seedlings, but keep in mind that seed-grown white sapote plants can take 5-10 years or more to fruit, if they fruit at all. There is no guarantee of when or if they will fruit, or what the fruit quality will be like.

You will need to check with each seller whether they will ship to your particular state.

Ross Creek Tropicals > White Sapote

Daley’s Fruit > White Sapote

You can also search local communities such as eBay, FaceBook Marketplace and Gumtree. There are quite often white sapote enthusiasts and specialists who are selling online. We have found white sapote plants being sold in most states in Australia.

We have had luck finding seeds on eBay and the best time to look is when fruit is in season, so that sellers readily have access to lots of fresh seeds. Again, you will need to check whether buying white sapote seeds in your state is permitted. Once you receive any white sapote seeds it is advisable to germinate or plant them as soon as possible. This will ensure you have a higher success rate of seeds germinating and growing.

Buy white sapote

Located in Melbourne Australia, we are White Sapote enthusiasts

Who first introduced White Sapote to Australia?

Who introduced different varieties of White Sapote to Australia and when?

Where to buy White Sapote plants in Australia

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