anchovy pear

plant
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Also known as: Grias cauliflora

anchovy pear, (Grias cauliflora), evergreen tree of the family Lecythidaceae, native to the West Indies. The tree is cultivated for its edible fruit. The plant grows to about 15 metres (50 feet) tall and bears spear-shaped, glossy leaves about 90 cm (35 inches) long that are produced in tufts at the ends of the branches. The fragrant yellow flowers are about 5 cm (2 inches) across. The fruit, which contains one seed, is pear-shaped, russet brown, 5–7 cm (2–3 inches) long, and rich in vitamin C.

This article was most recently revised and updated by William L. Hosch.