Nance (Byrsonima crassifolia)

Nanche (Byrsonima crassifolia), popularly called Nance, is a very attractive, very fast growing fruiting shrub or small tree in the Acerola family. Nance produces small yellow-orange fruit about the size and shape of a tropical cherry. Nance fruits have a starchy texture and are somewhat acidic but have a subtle sweetness when fully ripe.  Nance fruit can be eaten raw, fermented (chicha), juiced, distilled, candied, or prepared in deserts or carbonated drinks.

Nance is native to the tropical and subtropical Americas. The tropical Nance fruit grows in the Caribbean and Central and Latin America. In Central and South America, Nance can be found growing southern tip of Mexico through the Pacific side of Central America and into Peru and Brazil. They are most often found growing wild but have become a favorite in domestic ornamental gardens known for their decorative blooms and plentiful fruit. Valued for their drought resistant properties, the trees thrive in both tropical and subtropical climates and prefer sandy and rocky soils.

You may also know Byrsonima crassifolia by another of its many common names, including Changunga, Muruçi, Nanche, Nance, Chacunga, Craboo, Kraabu, Savanna Serrette and Golden Spoon.