The term Hog Plum refers to several species in the genus Spondias within the cashew family Anacardiaceae These tropical trees are prized for their tart plumlike fruits and are found across the Americas Asia and AfricaThe most common species are the Yellow Mombin Spondias mombin the Red Mombin Spondias purpurea and the Indian Hog Plum Spondias pinnata Botanical DescriptionFeatureDescriptionTree HeightTypically 1025 meters though some species like the Red Mombin are smaller spreading shrubsBarkThick grey and deeply fissured or corky in appearanceLeavesDeciduous and compound pinnate often falling off just before the tree flowersFlowersSmall white to pinkishred appearing in large terminal clusters panicles The Fruit DrupeThe fruit is the most recognizable part of the plant often resembling a small green mango or a large grapeAppearance Ovoid or oblong usually 35 cm long They transition from green to yellow orange or reddishpurple as they ripenTaste The flavor is a complex mix of sweet and sharp acidity When green they are very tart when ripe they become musky and aromaticStructure Inside the thin leathery skin is a juicy translucent pulp This pulp surrounds a large woody and fibrous pit stone that often has spines or a yarnlike texture making it difficult to separate from the flesh Culinary amp Medicinal UsesHog plums are highly versatile and vary by regionCulinaryRaw Often eaten with a pinch of salt and chili powder popular in South AsiaProcessed Used to make jams jellies juices and fruit leatherCooking In Thailand makok and India amra they are used as a souring agent in curries fish dishes and picklesMedicinal The bark and leaves are used in traditional medicine to treat digestive issues like diarrhea and dysentery due to their astringent properties Nutritional ValueHog plums are considered natures multivitamin because they areRich in Vitamin C Boosts the immune system and stimulates collagen productionHigh in Antioxidants Contains polyphenols that help fight oxidative stressSource of Fiber Supports digestive health and heart healthLow Calorie Roughly 4565 calories per 100g servingWhy is it called Hog PlumThe name comes from the fact that the fallen overripe fruits are frequently eaten by wandering livestock particularly hogs and deer in the tropical forests where they grow