What is Velvet Apple in Tagalog?

In Tagalog, the velvet apple is known primarily as Kamagong. It is also commonly referred to as Mabolo.

Understanding the Names

The fruit has two widely recognized names in the Philippines, each with its own significance:

• Kamagong: This is the most common and traditional Tagalog name for the velvet apple fruit. It is also often used to refer to the tree itself, which is highly valued for its dense, dark hardwood.
• Mabolo: This name is also widely used for the velvet apple. The term "mabolo" specifically translates to "hairy," referring to the fruit's distinctive hairy or velvety skin. This descriptive name directly highlights one of the fruit's most distinguishing features.

Key Characteristics of Velvet Apple

The velvet apple (scientifically known as Diospyros blancoi or Diospyros discolor) is a tropical fruit native to the Philippines, celebrated for its unique attributes:

• Appearance: The fruit is typically round or oblate, covered in fine, reddish-brown hairs that give it a soft, velvety texture.
• Color: The skin can range from a light yellowish to a deep reddish-brown when ripe. The flesh inside is usually creamy, yellowish, or sometimes pinkish.
• Taste Profile: Its flavor is often described as sweet and fragrant, with notes that some compare to a blend of apple and banana or persimmon. However, some varieties can be astringent if not fully ripe.
• Aroma: Ripe velvet apples are known for a strong, somewhat pungent aroma, which can be quite distinct.

Here’s a quick overview of its Tagalog names:

This distinctive fruit is an integral part of Filipino culture, appreciated for both its unique taste and the valuable timber derived from its sturdy tree.