20 Fruits That Start with A You Had No Idea Existed

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Fruits are awesome. The more we learn about them, the more we discover new food, flavors and culture. Planning to make an extraordinary fruit salad?! This list of fruits that start with A can help you with that mission!

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1. Avocado

Avocado’s popularity stretches from North America to Southeast Asia, and there’s a good reason for it. It’s creamy, buttery, and a rich source of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.

We love infusing avocado in our everyday meals at home. It’s a fantastic upgrade to our favorite quesadillas on special occasions, and, of course, on regular days, a simple yet incredibly tasty avocado toast or an avocado shake is my go-to!

I personally love avocado for its mild flavor – it’s never too overpowering – and it brings that inviting green hue to everything it touches. Fruits that begin with A are really enchantingly delicious.

2. Apricot

Fruits that start with A are famous for their vibrant colors and sweet flavors! Apricots hail from Central Asia and China, and they’re beloved snacks everywhere, whether fresh or dried.

The first time I encountered this fruit, I thought it was a citrus fruit! Turns out, they are stone fruits. Depending on how you eat it, there’s no need to peel!

I’ve mostly indulged in store-bought apricot jam, but perhaps it’s time to explore this fresh fruit in various ways, from toppings for salad dishes to crafting fresh juice!

You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how refreshing fruits starting with A can be.

3. Apple

When I think about fruits that start with A, apples come to mind first. They’re famous for their sweet yet slightly tart flavor and their potential health benefits.

Apples are a great source of vitamins, immune-boosting properties, and dietary fiber.

Their crisp, juicy flesh and refreshing flavor perfectly match my morning oats. I often wish we could grow apple trees and have an endless supply of these sweet fruits here in the Philippines.

I’ve recently discovered some apple recipes to try at home. But, since I don’t have a steady supply of apples right now, I’m thinking of just starting with an apple pie milkshake the next time I get fresh ones. Or maybe I’ll use other fruits starting with A for the meantime.

4. Acai Berries

I’ve always known that Acai berries are yummy fruits, but I never realized how nutritious they are.

They are a good source of vitamin C and can keep our skin healthy. Now, that’s another great reason to whip up that Acai bowl every morning!

Acai berry, known for their deep purple color and distinct flavor, originate from the lush rainforests of South America, particularly in the Amazon basin.

This purple fruit boast a sweet flesh that’s a delightful fusion of sweet and tart, similar to the combo of dark chocolate and blackberries.

But here’s the cool part: these little guys are super versatile, like other fruits that start with A.

You can throw them into your salad, stir them into chia pudding, or even use them to make homemade popsicles.

5. Asian Pear

Asian pears are native to East Asia. I used to think that this is a yellow fruit, but turns out there are also green and brown varieties with brown to black seeds.

While I’m not a big fan of Asian pears, my parents love them. They not only have a captivating texture and flavor, but they are also versatile fruits that can support our weight loss and overall wellness journey.

This type of fruit is low in calories, high in water content, and a good source of fibre. Maybe it’s time to jazz things up in the kitchen and get creative with Asian pears in savory dishes.

That way, I can savor their sweet taste while reaping their nutritional perks.

6. Argan

Today, I learned where my favorite skincare product comes from! Argan oil has been a part of my skincare routine for two years, giving me smooth skin. Argan oil originates from the argan fruit, which is native to Morocco in North Africa.

Argan oil is an edible fruit with an elongated shape resembling a plum. It’s small and encased in a tough shell. But what makes it intriguing is what’s inside.

Once you crack open the Argan fruit, you’ll find two valuable components: the fleshy pulp and the prized Argan nut. The latter is where the renowned Argan oil lies.

But fruit lovers, worry not. Aside from skincare and herbal medicine, this tasty fruit can be used in various dishes and is loved because of its nutty flavor.

7. Alpine Strawberry

Alpine strawberries, or wild strawberries, originated in European countries, including regions of the Alps and other mountainous areas.

These sweet fruits are much smaller than regular strawberries, often like wild berries or even as tiny as your thumbnail. But don’t let their size fool you; they are known for their delicious sweetness.

However, similar to the usual berries, they also have a tart and acidic taste. I love gardening, and I’d love to try growing these fruits, but it’s impossible where I’m from!

Even if I have the right conditions, I’ve read that growing them can be a bit challenging.

They need extra care compared to typical strawberries and are highly regarded for their gourmet quality. Any fruit that begins with A is pretty special, don’t you think?

8. Atemoya

Atemoya is a tropical fruit known for its luscious and exotic flavor. This sweet fruit is a hybrid, born from the marriage of the cherimoya and sugar apples. It thrives in warm, tropical climates and subtropical climates.

This means you can find this fruit everywhere, from Central and South America to Southeast Asia. I haven’t seen it in our local markets yet, but I should remember what it looks like. It’s heart-shaped, with a bumpy exterior.

Like many green fruits, it has a creamy texture, buttery taste, and custard-like consistency, with hints of banana, pineapple, and pear.

It’s a sweet fruit typically enjoyed on its own, but you can always incorporate it into smoothies or fruit salads. Fruits that start with A also pair well with other ingredients.

9. Acerola Cherry

Looking for a sweet kitchen adventure? Look no further than these fruits that start with A! Acerola cherries are bright red to reddish-orange small fruits. They thrive in warm, tropical regions, and subtropical regions and grow year-round in warm weather.

While I haven’t tried Acerola fruit yet, my family and I always enjoy cherry desserts, especially during the holiday season.

What’s amazing about cherries is they can double as natural food coloring because of their vibrant red-orange hue.

You can also incorporate these fruits into savory meals! Acerola cherries are often infused into many Caribbean dishes, including sauces, marinades, and salsas.

10. Ambarella

Among fruits starting with A, I find Ambarella to be truly extraordinary! Ambarella, also known as the golden apple, grows in tropical countries in Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, and the Caribbean.

This delicious fruit has an oval shape and green or yellow skin. I enjoy it from time to time! We call it “sinigwelas”, and it boasts a sweet tang taste with a touch of sourness.

While it’s not a common ingredient for desserts or savory dishes in our region, if you ever come across these exotic fruits, feel free to get creative.

The flavor can be incredibly refreshing, making it a fantastic choice to quench your thirst on a hot day. 

11. African Mangoes

I’ve mostly enjoyed Philippine mangoes so far, but I’m thrilled to learn about their African counterparts. African mangoes are native to West and Central Africa, like Nigeria and Cameroon.

Mangoes, no matter where they’re from, are delicious and nutritious. African mangoes are packed with vitamin C for your immune system and Vitamin A for your eyes and skin.

Interestingly, in their native regions, African mangoes have also been used in traditional medicine for pain relief and wound healing.

It’s actually their large seed that has become popular for potential health benefits through its extract.

African mango extract, derived from the seed, is available in various forms, such as liquid or capsules, and is sold as supplements. Fruits that start with A really have a lot to offer!

12. Ackee 

Ackee is a tropical fruit native to West Africa. It’s particularly famous in Jamaica, where it’s considered the national fruit. These fruits grow in evergreen trees in warm, tropical climates.

I haven’t seen one in person, but looking at its photo, it’s probably one of the most unique-looking fruits out there! They say it splits open when it’s ripe to reveal bright red or orange flesh and glossy black seeds.

Just in case you get hold of this fruit, don’t hesitate to try it in flavorful, savory dishes. Some compare its taste to that of scrambled eggs when cooked.

13. Antidesma Bunius

Fruits starting with A have an irresistible charm and unique look! Antidesma Bunius, also called “Bignay,” is a lesser-known tropical fruit found in Southeast Asian countries, particularly in the Philippines.

These tiny fruits are round or oval and come in shades from deep red to almost black when fully ripe. They’re about the size of small cherries but with a slightly elongated shape.

While they share some similarities with cherries, Bignay has a more complex flavor profile. Cherries are sweeter and juicier, whereas this fruit offers an extraordinary blend of astringency and sweetness.

Due to this, they’re used in teas, red wine, and even liquors like brandy. Their versatility also extends to making jams and jellies.

14. Araza

Next on this list of fruits that start with A is Araza, a hidden tropical treasure from South America. Araza is native to countries like Colombia, Ecuador, and Brazil. These tropical regions provide the ideal climate for this fruit to thrive.

In appearance, they might remind you of lemons – small to medium-sized, round, and typically yellow when ripe. But many say its flavor is a delightful mix of citrusy pineapple with a hint of peach.

It’s prized for its exceptionally high vitamin C content. In fact, it contains more vitamin C than oranges! It also contains minerals such as potassium, which is vital for regulating blood pressure.

It’s not common in North America, but if you ever come across this fruit, savor it on its own as a delightful snack, whip up a refreshing juice, or add it to your favorite ice cream for a tropical twist.

15. Akebi

Akebi is oblong and usually about the size of a large grape or a small plum. Its outer skin is pretty thick. When it’s ripe, it opens to reveal its jelly-like, translucent flesh and tiny edible seeds.

Getting to know a fruit that starts with A from Japan and other East Asian countries is a rare treat. Although it’s not commonly grown in the United States, it can be cultivated in certain regions with similar climate conditions.

Even though it’s native to Japan, Akebi isn’t as popular as fruits like oranges and apples. The next time I visit Japan, I must check specialty stores to hunt down this gem.

16. Annona Reticulata

Now is the ideal moment to discover the charm of fruits that start with A and what makes them truly special!

Annona Reticulata, or Custard Apple, hails from South America, Central America, the Caribbean, and parts of Asia. In the Philippines, we call it “Atis,” a childhood favorite of mine.

It’s a bit of a mystery why I don’t come across it as often these days, but believe me, it’s absolutely delicious.

Custard Apples are typically heart-shaped, with a knobby, green skin. Their flavor is a blend of sweet and slightly tangy, with hints of pear, pineapple, and vanilla.

17. Amla

When you think of fruits beginning with A, exotic Asian options might not be the first to come to mind. But there’s a world of them waiting to be discovered and savored.

Amla, also known as Indian Gooseberry, is a cherished ingredient for those who love natural remedies and a zesty kick in their meals. It’s tangy and slightly bitter, with earthy undertones.

It’s used in Indian cooking to create a range of dishes, from pickles to preserves and candies.

See? Fruits that start with A are packed with one-of-a-kind flavors and offer potential health benefits!

18. Annona Muricata

Annona muricata, known as Soursop to many and Guyabano to us, is recognized by its irregular green skin that hides the soft, white flesh inside. It’s one of my tropical favorites due to its refreshing taste, like a blend of pineapple and strawberry.

One of my favorite dairy-free breads from a local bakery uses this as a primary ingredient! If only my backyard had enough sunlight, I know I could grow them, too.

Among other exotic fruits starting with A, this is one of the most widely accessible in the U.S. You’ll recognize it the moment you see it – spiky with a green exterior like a dragon egg.

19. Abiu

Have you ever been to South America? If so, you’ve probably encountered a bunch of fantastic fruits that start with A!

One of the most delicious ones is Abiu, native to South America but also grows in places with lots of rain and humidity.

We call it the “Yellow Star Apple” because it’s creamy and sweet, akin to honey, vanilla, and caramel flavors! Every bite is like savoring a custard dessert, making it the perfect summer treat.

In the U.S., Abiu is somewhat hard to come by. But with some searching, you can find it in specialty stores, just like other fruits beginning with A.

20. Annona Squamosa

Annona squamosa, along with its close relatives Annona reticulata and Annona muricata, is definitely worth exploring.

Like its “A” fruit cousins, it stands out with its irregular, scaly green skin that hides the creamy, white, and slightly grainy flesh inside.

People adore its rich, sweet taste, and it truly feels like indulging in a tropical dessert. I’ve tasted many Annona fruits, and each bite is like savoring a fancy sweet meal.

It’s true that tropical fruits that start with A have their unique charm and flavors. That’s why we don’t always use them as ingredients in desserts – they are an absolute delight all on their own.

FAQs on Fruits That Start With A

What is an orange fruit that starts with A?

An orange fruit that starts with A is the apricot. These small, sweet fruits are vibrant orange when ripe and are used in various dishes and snacks.

What is the rarest berry?

Cloudberries are rare berries that thrive in the Northern Hemisphere, growing in high-altitude regions that seem to touch the clouds.

Is there a miracle berry?

Yes, there is a “miracle berry” known as Synsepalum dulcificum. When consumed, it temporarily alters taste perception, making sour or acidic foods taste sweet.

What is an exotic fruit that starts with A?

There are numerous exotic “A” fruits to explore, including Araza, Akebi, Amla, and Annona Muricata.

Which vegetables start with the letter A?

Several vegetables start with the letter A, including Asparagus, Arugula, and Artichokes.

Conclusion on Fruits That Start with A

Growing up, the only fruits that start with A that you probably only ever ate were apples and apricots.

Clearly you haven’t even discovered half of all the fruits with letter A, let alone fruits starting with other letters!

It’s always a great idea not to turn down the chance to learn more about fruits. Next time you travel, make sure to explore the local fruits!

Whether you’re in Asia or South America, this flavor journey will continue to inspire your taste exploration even after you return home.