Rollinia excusa

Rollinia excusa, commonly known as the Biriba, is a tropical fruit tree that is native to South America, particularly Brazil and Peru. It belongs to the Annonaceae family and is closely related to other tropical fruit trees such as the cherimoya and soursop.

The Biriba tree can grow up to 10-15 meters tall and has a dense, bushy growth habit with large, glossy green leaves. The tree produces fruit that is oval or heart-shaped, and can range in size from small to large, with the largest specimens weighing up to 4kg. The fruit has a rough, bumpy surface and a yellowish-green color when ripe, with soft, creamy, white flesh that is sweet and fragrant. The flavor is often described as a combination of pineapple, banana, and lemon.

Biriba trees thrive in warm, humid climates and are often found growing in tropical rainforests. They prefer well-drained, fertile soil and require regular watering and fertilization to produce high-quality fruit. The tree is relatively hardy and can tolerate some drought and temperature fluctuations, but is susceptible to frost and cannot survive in areas with extended periods of cold weather.

In addition to its culinary value, Biriba is also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, cough, and diarrhea. The bark and leaves of the tree are often used to make herbal remedies, while the fruit is considered a good source of vitamins and minerals.