Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden, South Africa

Common name: Geraamteplant, Delicious monster, Fruit salad plant, Swiss cheese plant

Family: Araceae (Aroid)

Distribution: Central America

IUCN Red list: Not evaluated

Comments: The fruit may be ripened by cutting it when the first scales begin to lift up and it begins to exude a pungent odor. It is wrapped in a paper bag and set aside until the scales begin popping off. The scales are then brushed off or fall away to reveal the edible flesh underneath. The flesh, which is similar to pineapple in texture, can be cut away from the core and eaten. It has a fruity taste similar to jackfruit and pineapple. The unripe green fruits can irritate the throat and the latex of the leaves and vines can create rashes on the skin, because both contain potassium oxalate: that is the reason why the fruits have to be consumed when the scales lift up.