Heart-shaped fruits flourish in Baiyun
The inside of the naseberry is like a human heart. [Photo/WeChat account: gz_baiyunfabu]
The naseberry - a fruit shaped like the human heart - grown in Zhanggang village, Zhongluotan town, Baiyun district, Guangzhou, matures from April to May.
This tropical fruit belongs to the Sapotaceae family, with a rough brown skin and sweet flesh.
These superior-quality naseberries recently matured and hit the local market. They can easily be split in half, exuding a rich flavor with hints of a caramel aroma and a subtle sour edge. Farmers say the ripeness can be determined by wiping the fruit's skin—yellow-brown indicates it is ripe, while green signifies it still has a way to go.
Naseberries are quite rare in the market, but they are suitable for both raw consumption and soup-making, and are known for their lung-nourishing and nutrient-rich properties.
They have been cultivated in Zhanggang village for over 40 years, covering an area of nearly 30 mu (2 hectares). In the 1980s, villager Hu Lixian introduced the naseberry seedlings, and become one of the first planters of the fruit in the area.
This year, due to the impact of a harsh winter and heavy rain, the yield has decreased but still exceeds 11,000 kilograms. The villagers will harvest naseberries in advance and transport them to the market in Zhongluotan town for wholesale.
The appearance of the naseberries. [Photo/WeChat account: gz_baiyunfabu]