11 Jamaica Fruits and Their Seasons: Tropical Delights You Must Try

Jamaica is renowned for its vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and, of course, its mouthwatering tropical fruits. From the sweet juiciness of mangoes to the exotic flavor of ackee, Jamaica fruit is a delightful treat for travelers and locals alike. This guide explores 11 must-try Jamaican fruits, revealing the best seasons to enjoy them and why they’re a tropical treasure. Whether you're planning a visit or simply curious about Caribbean fruits, this seasonal guide is your ticket to savoring the freshest flavors of Jamaica.

1. Pineapple: The Crown Jewel of Jamaica

Season:  Available Year-Round

Pineapples are the crown jewel of Jamaican fruits, known for their intense sweetness and refreshing tropical flavor. Unlike pineapples found elsewhere, Jamaican varieties like the Cowboy Pineapple and Ripley Pineapple are uniquely sweet and less acidic, making them a favorite among locals and tourists.

At Croydon in the Mountains, pineapples are grown organically, ensuring the richest flavor. The farm’s unique location in the foothills of the Catadupa Mountains provides the perfect climate for cultivating this tropical delight. Visitors can enjoy an immersive experience with the Pineapple Farm Tour, where you learn about the growing process, sample freshly harvested fruit, and even sip on homemade pineapple juice.

Why Visit Croydon in the Mountains?

Croydon in the Mountains offers a unique opportunity to explore the source of Jamaica’s finest pineapples. Guided tours take you through lush plantations, revealing the secrets behind the cultivation of the MD2 Pineapple, known for its golden color and exceptional sweetness.

Book a Pineapple Farm Tour and savor its sweet, juicy flavor.

2. Mango: Juicy and Irresistible

Season: April to June

No list of Jamaican fruits is complete without mangoes. During the peak season from April to June, the streets of Jamaica are filled with the aroma of ripe mangoes. From the East Indian Mango, known for its creamy texture, to the Black Mango with its rich, bold flavor, there's a variety for every palate.

Fun Fact: Mangoes are a staple in Jamaican cuisine, used in everything from fresh fruit salads to spicy chutneys.

3. Ackee: The National Fruit of Jamaica

Season: January to March & June to August

Ackee is Jamaica’s national fruit and a key ingredient in the iconic dish, Ackee and Saltfish. It has a unique buttery texture and a mild, nutty flavor. While it’s delicious, ackee is only safe to eat when fully ripe, as the unripe fruit is toxic.

Travel Tip: To experience authentic Jamaican cuisine, visit local restaurants during the ackee season and try the traditional breakfast of Ackee and Saltfish.

4. Jackfruit: The Tropical Giant

Season: Available Year-Round

Jackfruit is the largest fruit grown in Jamaica, known for its sweet, bubblegum-like flavor. It’s a versatile fruit used in both sweet and savory dishes. When ripe, it’s eaten fresh, while unripe jackfruit is cooked as a meat substitute due to its fibrous texture.

Did You Know? Jackfruit is rich in nutrients and is gaining popularity worldwide as a vegan alternative to meat.

5. Guineps: A Tropical Snack

Season: June to August

Jackfruit is the largest fruit grown in Jamaica, known for its sweet, bubblegum-like flavor. It’s a versatile fruit used in both sweet and savory dishes. When ripe, it’s eaten fresh, while unripe jackfruit is cooked as a meat substitute due to its fibrous texture.

Did You Know? Jackfruit is rich in nutrients and is gaining popularity worldwide as a vegan alternative to meat.

6. Stinking Toe: Unusual Yet Delicious

Season: April to June

Despite its unusual name, Stinking Toe is a beloved Jamaican fruit. The name comes from its hard pod, which resembles a big toe and emits a strong odor when opened. However, the dry, powdery pulp inside is sweet and nutritious, often eaten raw or used to make beverages.

Fun Fact: Stinking Toe is rich in iron and is considered an energy-boosting superfood in Jamaica.

Grapes: A Unique Jamaican Variety

Season: April to June

Jamaica's version of grapes is different from the typical table grape. These small, dark-skinned fruits are slightly tart and are usually eaten fresh or used in homemade juices and jams.

Travel Tip: Look for local markets selling Jamaican grapes during the harvest season to enjoy their unique flavor.

Soursop: Tropical Goodness

Season: March through November

Soursop is a spiky green fruit with a creamy, white flesh that tastes like a blend of strawberry and pineapple. It’s known for its health benefits, particularly its high vitamin C content and antioxidant properties.

Did You Know? Soursop is often used to make refreshing juices, smoothies, and even ice cream in Jamaica.



Star Fruit: Exotic and Refreshing

Season: June to February

Star Fruit, or Carambola, is a beautiful tropical fruit shaped like a star when sliced. It has a sweet and tangy flavor, making it perfect for snacking or adding a decorative touch to salads and desserts.

Travel Tip: Eat star fruit fresh for a refreshing burst of tropical flavor or use it as a garnish for exotic cocktails.



Papaya: The Breakfast Favorite

Season: February and March

Papaya, known locally as Pawpaw, is a tropical favorite for breakfast in Jamaica. It’s rich in vitamins A and C and has a sweet, musky flavor. Squeeze a little lime juice over sliced papaya for a delicious start to your day.

Health Tip: Papaya aids digestion and boosts immunity, making it a nutritious addition to your tropical fruit feast.



Sweetsop: A Custard-Like Delight

Season: April to September

Sweetsop, also known as Sugar Apple, has a custard-like texture and a sweet, creamy flavor. The segmented green skin opens to reveal soft, juicy pulp that melts in your mouth.

Travel Tip: Enjoy sweetsop fresh or blend it into smoothies for a tropical twist.



Experience Jamaica’s Tropical Delights at Croydon in the Mountains

Jamaica is a paradise of exotic fruits, each with its own unique flavor and story. From the iconic Ackee to the juicy Mango and the sweet Soursop, these tropical delights are a must-try for anyone visiting the island. 

At Croydon in the Mountains, we bring you closer to the source of these flavorful treasures, offering an authentic Jamaican experience. Our Organic Farm Tour takes you on a journey through lush plantations, where you can taste the freshest fruits and learn about Jamaica's rich agricultural heritage.

Why Choose Croydon in the Mountains?

• Interactive Farm Tours: Learn about the cultivation of exotic fruits like pineapple, jackfruit, and soursop.
• Fruit Tasting Experiences: Sample a variety of tropical fruits picked fresh from the trees.
• Breathtaking Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of the Catadupa Mountains while savoring nature's bounty.

Embark on a tropical adventure at Croydon in the Mountains and discover the exquisite flavors of Jamaica fruit. Whether you’re a foodie, a nature lover, or simply curious about Caribbean fruits, our farm tours offer an immersive and educational experience like no other.