Genipa americana L.

Description:

Mature fruit sold at local farmers' markets. Itis rather strong (but agreeably) scented and is of acquired taste. The fruit is used to produce liqueur, much consumed at St. Johns festivities in late June, and never used raw. Spicy water is also made with it by leaving slices of the ripe fruit in a jar with water for at least 48 hours; some sugar is added to it at drinking. The mature fruit is prized for its high iron content.