Hi, readers! Srima here with a new series of fruit names. Today’s post is about “ Fruits That Start with A.”
Fruits are a crucial part of a balanced diet, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. From the common apple to the exotic abiu, the letter “A” introduces a variety of fruits that span the globe. Each fruit brings its unique flavor, texture, and health benefits, contributing to culinary traditions and dietary habits worldwide.
Did you know there are over 2,000 types of apples alone, but they only scratch the surface of fruits that start with the letter “A”? From the creamy richness of avocados to the tangy burst of acerola, fruits that start with an ‘A’ bring bold flavors and powerful health benefits.
We have rounded up some amazing fruits that start with A and have amazing tastes and benefits.
1. Apple
Whether it is a list of fruits in general or alphabetic order, Apple must be in the first position. Originating from Central Asia, apples are now grown worldwide, with over 7,500 varieties. They are available from late summer through fall, depending on the variety. Apples are rich in fiber and antioxidants and can be enjoyed fresh in smoothies, desserts, jams or pickles.
2. Apricot
Native to Central and Eastern Asia, apricots grow on small trees in warm climates. These juicy fruits are in season from late spring to early summer. Packed with a sweet yet slightly tart taste, Apricots are rich in vitamin A, thus promoting eye health.
3. Avocado
Yes, the creamy, buttery avocado layered over your toast is a fruit. Originating from southern Mexico, Avocados are available year-round but are at their best in late winter through spring. However, they do not carry a very strong taste but are packed with nutrients such as healthy fats and potassium.
4. Acerola
Sometimes mistaken for Cherries, Acerolas grow in a shrub or small tree during summer. This juicy fruit is native to the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. Acerolas are rich in Vitamay C and perhaps contain more content than an Orange. These fruits are often turned into juices, powders, or supplements.
5. Acai Berry
Acai berries come from the Amazon rainforest in Brazil. These tiny purple fruits grow on palm trees and are harvested year-round. Acai berries have a unique tart, earthy flavour, which goes well in smoothie bowls and juices. This tiny, juicy fruit is packed with antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids that boast energy and support skin health.
6. Asian Pear
Originating from East Asia, Asian pears come in varieties like Hosui and Nijisseiki. They are in season from late summer to early fall. These pears are high in fiber and vitamin C, promoting digestive health and boosting the immune system. They are delicious in salads, desserts, and as fresh snacks.
7. Amaranth
While primarily a grain, amaranth’s leaves and seeds are edible and nutritious. Native to Central and South America, it is grown year-round in tropical climates. Amaranth is rich in protein, fiber, and essential amino acids, supporting muscle health and digestion. It can be used in porridges, salads, and baked goods.
8. Atemoya
Often mistaken for Sugar Apples, Atemoya is a hybrid between the sugar apple and cherimoya. The fruit is native to Taiwan and parts of Southeast Asia and is enjoyed during late summer to early fall. The creamy, sweet taste of Atemoya is similar to a blend of pineapple and vanilla. It goes well in desserts, especially tropical recipes.
9. Achacha
Coming from the rainforests of Bolivia, Achacha or Achachairú is available throughout the summers. Its tangy and slightly sweet taste pairs well with desserts. For the unknown, Achacah tastes somewhat similar to mangosteen, longan, rambutan and lychee but with a slightly exotic touch. It is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants and is good for the immune system.
10. African Horned Cucumber
The first impression may not appeal to you, but African Horned Cucumbers are a must-try. This horned cucumber is native to South Africa and is in season during the summer months. Its spiky, orange exterior hides a jelly-like green interior with a mildly sweet and tart taste. The fruit is enjoyed as a refreshing snack in hot climates, either raw or in salads.
11. Almond
Almonds are technically a seed but are noted among fruit originating in the Middle East. Presently, Almonds are grown worldwide, with California being a major producer. Available year-round, Almonds have a mild, nutty and slightly sweet flavour along with a healthy dose of Vitamin E. They are commonly used in snacks, baking, and even milk alternatives.
12. Ambarella
Also known as the golden apple, ambarella is native to Southeast Asia. It is typically available in the rainy season, from late spring to early summer. Ambarella is known for its tart flavor with a fibrous texture, often eaten raw or used in chutneys (dips) and salads. It is pale-bluish green to pea green on the outside but has white flesh and black seeds inside. Not only is it a tasty snack, but Ambarella is popular for its digestive remedies as well.
13. American Persimmon
Originating from the United States, this fruit is typically in season in the fall. American persimmons are rich in vitamins A and C, supporting vision and immune health. They are used in puddings, breads, and fresh eating.
14. Amla (Indian Gooseberry)
Native to India, amla is in season during the winter months. It is extremely high in vitamin C and antioxidants, promoting immune health and skin health. Amla is often used in pickles, juices, and traditional Ayurvedic medicine.
15. Ananas (Pineapple)
Originally from South America, pineapples are available year-round in tropical climates. They are high in vitamin C and bromelain, which aids digestion and reduces inflammation. Commonly used in fruit salads, juices, and desserts.
16. Annona
Including fruits like cherimoya and sugar apple, annona is native to tropical regions of the Americas. They are in season from summer to fall. Rich in vitamin C and fiber, these fruits support immune health and digestion. Often eaten fresh or used in desserts and smoothies.
17. Araza
Native to the Amazon rainforest, araza is in season during the rainy season. It is high in vitamin C and antioxidants, promoting immune health and skin health. Araza is often used in juices, ice creams, and jams.
18. Arctic Raspberry
Found in the northern regions, including Scandinavia and Alaska, this fruit is in season during the summer. Rich in vitamins A and C, arctic raspberries support vision and immune health. They are used in jams, desserts, and fresh eating.
19. Ashwagandha
Though primarily known as an herb, the fruit of the ashwagandha plant is edible. Native to India, it is available year-round. The fruit is used in traditional medicine and has adaptogenic properties, supporting stress management and overall health. It is less commonly used in culinary recipes.
20. Asian Persimmon
Native to China and Japan, Asian persimmons are in season during the fall. High in vitamins A and C, they promote vision and immune health. They are eaten fresh, dried, or used in desserts and salads.
21. Averrhoa Bilimbi
Also known as bilimbi, this fruit is native to Southeast Asia and is in season year-round. It is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting immune health and skin health. Bilimbi is often used in pickles, curries, and chutneys.
22. Açaí Palm
Acai Palm grows very similar to Aronia Berries, but their taste is worlds apart. Acai Palm Fruit have a rich, earthy taste that goes well in smoothies and breakfast bowls. These small, dark purple berries are native to the Amazon rainforest in Brazil and come around late summer to early fall. With high antioxidant content, the açaí berry supports skin health and boosts energy.
23. Aronia (Chokeberry)
Aronia Berry, Chokeberry or Sour Berry are enjoyed fresh off the bush. They are native to South America and are in season from late summer to fall. Aronia Berries have a tart, slightly astringent taste, which makes them ideal for juice, jams and even health supplements. Their high antioxidant content is often used in wellness circles to support heart health and improve blood circulation.
24. Akee Apple
Native to West Africa, akee apple is in season from summer to early winter. It is high in healthy fats and vitamins A and B. Used in traditional Jamaican dishes like akee and saltfish, as well as in soups and salads.
25. African Cherry Orange
Native to Central and West Africa, this fruit is in season from fall to winter. It is high in vitamin C and fiber, supporting immune health and digestion. It is often used in juices and eaten fresh.
26. Akebi
Native to Japan, akebi is in season during the fall. It is high in vitamin C and antioxidants, promoting immune health and skin health. Akebi is often eaten fresh or used in traditional Japanese dishes.
27. Acerola Cherry
Originating from the Caribbean and South America, acerola cherries are available from spring to fall. Extremely high in vitamin C, they boost immune function and skin health. Commonly used in juices, jams, and smoothies.
28. American Black Elderberry
Native to North America, these berries are in season from late summer to early fall. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins A and C, they support immune health and reduce inflammation. Elderberries are used in syrups, jams, and supplements.
29. African Medlar
Native to Africa, this fruit is in season during the summer. It is high in vitamin C and fiber, supporting immune health and digestion. Often used in traditional African dishes, desserts, and fresh eating.
30. Alpine Strawberry
Native to Europe, these small strawberries are in season during the summer. Rich in vitamins C and K, they support immune health and bone health. Alpine strawberries are often eaten fresh or used in desserts and jams.
31. American Plum
Native to North America, American plums are in season from late summer to early fall. High in vitamins A and C, they promote vision and immune health. They are used in jams, jellies, and fresh eating.
32. Amazon Tree Grape
Native to the Amazon rainforest, this fruit is in season during the rainy season. It is high in antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting immune health and reducing inflammation. Often used in juices and eaten fresh.
33. Amla (Gooseberry)
Native to India, amla is in season during the winter months. Extremely high in vitamin C, it boosts immune function and skin health. Used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, as well as in pickles, juices, and chutneys.
34. Amazonian Grape
Originating from the Amazon rainforest, this fruit is available year-round in tropical climates. It is high in antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting immune health and reducing inflammation. Commonly used in juices, jams, and fresh eating.
35. African Mangosteen
Native to tropical Africa, this fruit is in season during the rainy season. It is high in vitamin C and antioxidants, promoting immune health and skin health. Often eaten fresh or used in traditional African dishes and desserts.
36. Amara
Native to tropical regions, amara is in season during the summer. It is high in vitamins C and A, supporting immune health and vision. Often used in traditional dishes, desserts, and fresh eating.
37. Arbutus Unedo (Strawberry Tree Fruit)
Native to the Mediterranean region, this fruit is in season during the fall. It is high in vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting immune health and skin health. Often used in jams, liqueurs, and fresh eating.
38. Australian Finger Lime
Australian Finger Lime is a unique fruit, an elongated version of lime but with an enjoyable taste. Originating from the rainforests of eastern Australia, it is available year-round. The fruit resembles tiny citrus caviar and has a tangy, lemon-lime flavour that goes well with gourmet dishes, cocktails, and salads. Its burst of citrus flavour gives it a high Vitamin C content.
39. Alibertia
Alibertia fruits are native to tropical regions of South America. They are in season from summer to early autumn. These fruits are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals. They can be used in traditional dishes, juices, and desserts.
40. Abiu
Abiu is an ultra-tropical fruit native to the Amazon rainforest, particularly found in Brazil. It is in season during the rainy months, typically from late spring to early summer. Abiu has a smooth, sweet, and custard-like flavour with hints of vanilla and caramel. Due to its high water content, it is perfect for keeping hydration in check.
41. Aki
Native to West Africa and introduced to the Caribbean, aki is in season from summer to early winter. It is high in healthy fats and vitamins A and B. Used in traditional dishes like ackee and saltfish, as well as in soups and salads.
42. Anar (Pomegranate)
Originating from Iran and India, pomegranates are in season from late summer to winter. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins C and K, supporting heart health and reducing inflammation. Commonly used in salads, juices, and desserts.
43. Arava Melon
Native to the Middle East, this fruit is in season during the summer. High in vitamins A and C, supporting vision and immune health. Often used in fruit salads, desserts, and fresh eating.
44. Ashmead’s Kernel Apple
An old English apple variety, it is in season during the fall. High in fiber and vitamin C, promoting heart health and immune function. Used in baking, fresh eating, and cider making.
45. Autumn Olive Berry
Native to Asia and introduced to North America, this fruit is in season during the fall. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins A and C, supporting immune health and reducing inflammation. Often used in jams, desserts, and fresh eating.
46. Alyssum
Though primarily known as a flower, some varieties of alyssum produce edible seeds. Native to Europe and Asia, it is in season during the summer. The seeds are high in nutrients and can be used in baking and salads.
47. Anise Hyssop
While primarily an herb, anise hyssop produces edible flowers and leaves. Native to North America, it is in season during the summer. The leaves and flowers are high in antioxidants and can be used in teas, salads, and desserts.
48. Amazon Grape
Native to the Amazon rainforest, this fruit is in season during the rainy season. High in antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting immune health and reducing inflammation. Used in juices, jams, and fresh eating.
49. Achiote
Native to tropical regions of the Americas, achiote is in season year-round. The seeds are high in antioxidants and are often used as a natural food coloring and flavoring in traditional dishes.
50. Asimina
Asimina, also known as pawpaw, is native to the eastern United States and is in season from late summer to early autumn. High in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, it can be enjoyed fresh, in smoothies, or used in desserts.
51. Ashy Leaf Monkey Fruit
Last on our list is Ashy Leaf Monkey Fruit, a rare fruit that is barely known around the internet. As per claims, it is a native rainforest region of Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia. Its season is somewhat unpredictable, as it depends on the local climate, typically peaking in late summer. The fruit has a sour, citrus-like taste with a hint of bitterness. Its scarcity and unique flavour make it a prized find among exotic fruit collectors.
