18 Fruits That Start With E
Many unique and flavorful fruits begin with the letter "E," ranging from widely cultivated varieties to rare and exotic selections. Some offer refreshing sweetness, while others provide a tart or tangy taste, making them popular in different culinary traditions.
Whether enjoyed fresh, cooked, or processed into preserves and beverages, these fruits bring diversity to diets and provide valuable nutrients. Their adaptability to various climates and growing conditions also makes them interesting choices for gardeners and farmers worldwide.
Published: February 3, 2025.
Explore a variety of fruits that start with "E," from well-known favorites to rare and exotic selections:
Early Girl Tomato
The Early Girl tomato is a popular variety known for its fast-growing nature and reliable yield. It produces medium-sized, round, and bright red tomatoes that have a sweet yet slightly tangy flavor. This variety is favored by home gardeners because of its early harvest, usually maturing within 50 to 60 days after planting. It is an indeterminate variety, meaning it continues producing fruit throughout the growing season rather than all at once.
Early Girl tomatoes are highly versatile in the kitchen. They can be enjoyed fresh in salads, sliced for sandwiches, or used in sauces and soups. Their high sugar content gives them a rich taste, making them a favorite among those who prefer a balance of sweetness and acidity in their tomatoes. Additionally, they are well-suited for container gardening and raised beds, allowing even those with limited space to enjoy a homegrown harvest.
In terms of cultivation, Early Girl tomatoes thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. They require regular watering and benefit from staking or caging to support their vigorous growth. Their disease resistance makes them a reliable choice for gardeners looking for a productive and hassle-free tomato plant.
Earlygold Mango
The Earlygold mango is an early-season variety known for its vibrant yellow-orange skin and juicy, aromatic flesh. It is prized for its smooth texture, minimal fiber, and naturally sweet flavor, making it an excellent choice for fresh consumption. As one of the first mangoes to ripen in the season, Earlygold provides an early taste of summer before many other varieties are available.
This mango is well-suited for a variety of culinary uses. It can be eaten fresh, blended into smoothies, or added to fruit salads for a tropical twist. The flesh is tender and fiber-free, which makes it ideal for making mango purees, sorbets, and desserts. Its natural sweetness also allows it to be used in chutneys and salsas, pairing well with savory dishes.
Earlygold mango trees thrive in warm, tropical climates with plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil. They require regular watering, especially during dry periods, to ensure optimal fruit development. The trees are relatively low-maintenance and can produce abundant harvests when properly cared for, making them a favorite among commercial growers and home gardeners alike.
Elderberry
Elderberry is a small, dark purple fruit that grows in clusters on the Sambucus tree. It has been widely used for centuries in herbal medicine due to its high antioxidant and vitamin content. Rich in vitamin C, fiber, and flavonoids, elderberries are known for their potential immune-boosting properties. They have been traditionally used in syrups, teas, and extracts to help combat colds and flu.
In culinary applications, elderberries are commonly processed rather than eaten raw due to their slightly tart and astringent taste. They are frequently used in jams, jellies, pies, and wine production. Their deep, rich flavor complements both sweet and savory dishes, and they pair well with spices such as cinnamon and cloves. When cooked, elderberries develop a pleasant sweetness, making them a popular ingredient in homemade syrups and cordials.
Growing elderberries is relatively straightforward, as the plants are hardy and adaptable to various soil types. They prefer full sun to partial shade and require moderate watering. Elderberry bushes can grow quite large, making them an attractive addition to home gardens. In addition to their fruit, their white or cream-colored blossoms are also edible and can be used to make elderflower syrup or tea.
Elephant Apple (Chalta)
The Elephant Apple, scientifically known as Dillenia indica, is a unique tropical fruit native to South and Southeast Asia. It is commonly called "Chalta" in India and Bangladesh, where it is widely used in traditional cooking and herbal remedies. The fruit is large, round, and green when unripe, turning yellowish as it matures. Its thick, fibrous outer shell encloses a soft, tangy pulp that is highly aromatic and slightly sour in taste.
This fruit is not typically consumed fresh due to its tartness but is often used in curries, pickles, and chutneys. In Indian cuisine, it is a popular ingredient in fish and meat dishes, where its sourness enhances the overall flavor. In some regions, it is also used in traditional medicine to aid digestion and reduce inflammation. Its high vitamin C content makes it a valuable addition to a nutrient-rich diet.
Elephant apple trees thrive in warm, humid climates and are commonly found in tropical forests and riverbanks. The tree itself is ornamental, with large, glossy leaves and fragrant, white flowers that attract pollinators. While the fruit has limited commercial cultivation, it is highly valued in local markets and is an important food source for wildlife, including elephants, which play a role in seed dispersal.
Elands Sour Fig
The Elands Sour Fig (Carpobrotus acinaciformis) is a succulent fruit native to South Africa, where it is well-adapted to coastal and arid environments. This fruit belongs to the ice plant family and is known for its bright pink to purple flowers and thick, fleshy leaves. The fruit itself is small, yellow to reddish-brown when ripe, and has a chewy, jelly-like texture with a distinctively sour flavor.
Elands Sour Fig is traditionally used in South African cuisine, particularly in making preserves and jams. Its tartness makes it an excellent ingredient for sweet-and-sour combinations, and it is often combined with sugar to create a unique and refreshing treat. The fruit is also consumed fresh or dried, offering a burst of tangy flavor.
In addition to its culinary uses, the plant is valued for its medicinal benefits. The leaves are commonly used in traditional medicine to treat sore throats, burns, and digestive issues. Its ability to thrive in sandy, nutrient-poor soils makes it a popular ground cover for erosion control in coastal areas. The plant is highly resilient, requiring little maintenance, and is an excellent choice for sustainable landscaping.
Emu Apple Fruit
The Emu Apple (Owenia acidula) is a small, reddish-purple fruit native to Australia. It grows on a hardy, drought-resistant tree found in arid and semi-arid regions. The fruit resembles a plum but has a firm texture and a strong, tangy taste with a hint of bitterness. Indigenous Australians have traditionally used Emu Apples as a food source and for medicinal purposes, as they are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
This fruit is typically consumed after being softened or dried, as its raw form can be quite astringent. When fully ripe, Emu Apples develop a milder, slightly sweet flavor, making them suitable for jams, sauces, and desserts. They are also sometimes fermented to make traditional bush drinks. The fruit is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making it a valuable addition to a nutrient-dense diet.
The Emu Apple tree is well-adapted to Australia’s harsh conditions, requiring minimal water and thriving in sandy or rocky soils. It is a slow-growing species that provides shade and habitat for native wildlife. Though not commonly cultivated on a large scale, interest in bush foods has increased its recognition in modern cuisine, where it is being explored for gourmet and health-focused applications.
Emu Berry Fruit
The Emu Berry (Grewia retusifolia) is a small, reddish-purple fruit native to Australia. It grows on a hardy shrub that thrives in dry, sandy soils and is commonly found in woodlands and grasslands. The fruit is small, round, and has a slightly tart yet mildly sweet flavor, making it a favored bush food among Indigenous Australians for centuries.
Emu Berries are typically eaten fresh but can also be dried for later use. Their unique taste makes them suitable for jams, desserts, and even traditional bush teas. The fruit is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, particularly vitamin C, which supports immune health. Some Indigenous groups also use parts of the plant for medicinal purposes, such as treating minor wounds and digestive issues.
The Emu Berry plant is highly resilient and requires little maintenance, making it an excellent choice for sustainable gardening and land restoration projects. Its ability to withstand drought conditions and poor soil makes it an important plant for maintaining biodiversity in arid regions. Although not widely cultivated commercially, the growing interest in native Australian foods has brought more attention to this nutritious and flavorful fruit.
Emblica (Indian Gooseberry)
Emblica, commonly known as Indian Gooseberry (Phyllanthus emblica), is a small, green fruit revered for its impressive health benefits. It is widely grown in India, Southeast Asia, and other tropical regions. The fruit is round, smooth, and slightly yellow-green in color, with a distinctively sour and astringent taste. Despite its strong acidity, it is highly valued for its rich nutrient profile, particularly its exceptionally high vitamin C content.
Indian Gooseberry is used extensively in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurveda, where it is considered a rejuvenating superfood. It is believed to support digestion, improve immunity, and promote hair and skin health. The fruit is often consumed fresh, pickled, or dried and powdered for use in supplements, herbal teas, and tonics. One of the most well-known uses of Emblica is in *Triphala*, a traditional Ayurvedic herbal blend known for its detoxifying properties.
Beyond its medicinal applications, Indian Gooseberry is also used in culinary dishes. It is commonly incorporated into chutneys, preserves, and syrups. The fruit's tangy flavor pairs well with spices and sweeteners, making it a versatile ingredient in both traditional and modern recipes. The tree itself is hardy and drought-resistant, thriving in a variety of soil conditions, which makes it an important crop in regions with challenging growing environments.
Enterprise Apple
The Enterprise Apple (Malus domestica ‘Enterprise’) is a modern disease-resistant apple variety developed for its excellent storage capability and crisp texture. This medium-to-large apple has a deep red, glossy skin and a firm, juicy flesh with a well-balanced flavor that combines sweetness with a slight tartness. It was developed as part of a breeding program focused on creating apples that are resistant to common diseases like apple scab, fire blight, and cedar apple rust.
Enterprise apples are highly versatile, making them suitable for both fresh eating and cooking. Their firm texture holds up well in baking, making them a great choice for pies, crisps, and sauces. They also store exceptionally well, maintaining their flavor and crispness for months when kept in cool storage conditions. This characteristic makes them a popular choice for commercial growers and home gardeners who want an apple variety with an extended shelf life.
The Enterprise apple tree is relatively easy to grow, requiring full sun and well-drained soil. Its natural resistance to many common apple diseases reduces the need for chemical treatments, making it a more sustainable option for apple orchards. The tree produces reliable yields, and the fruit ripens in mid to late autumn, offering a late-season harvest for apple lovers.
Entawak
Entawak (Artocarpus anisophyllus) is a tropical fruit native to Malaysia and Indonesia, closely related to jackfruit and breadfruit. It grows on a medium-sized tree that thrives in warm, humid climates. The fruit is round, covered in a rough, spiky brownish-green husk, and typically reaches the size of a grapefruit. Inside, it contains bright orange, soft flesh surrounding large edible seeds.
The taste of Entawak is often compared to pumpkin or sweet potato with a rich, creamy texture. It is commonly eaten fresh, though it can also be used in desserts, smoothies, or processed into jams. The seeds, much like jackfruit seeds, can be roasted and eaten as a nutritious snack, offering a nutty flavor. While the fruit is not widely cultivated outside its native range, it is an important part of local diets and is sometimes found in regional markets.
Growing an Entawak tree requires warm, tropical conditions with well-drained soil and regular moisture. The tree is relatively low-maintenance and can produce fruit annually. Although it is not as widely recognized as other members of the Artocarpus genus, its unique flavor and nutritional benefits make it an intriguing option for those interested in rare tropical fruits.
Ephedra
Ephedra is a genus of small, shrub-like plants that produce tiny, berry-like fruits, primarily found in arid and desert regions around the world. While Ephedra is more commonly known for its medicinal properties rather than its fruit, some species, such as Ephedra foeminea, produce edible, fleshy red or orange fruits. These small fruits have a mildly sweet taste and are sometimes consumed by local wildlife and indigenous populations.
The plant itself is more famous for its stems, which contain ephedrine, a natural stimulant traditionally used in herbal medicine to treat respiratory issues such as asthma and congestion. Ephedra has been used in ancient Chinese medicine for thousands of years under the name ma huang. However, due to its stimulant effects, its use in dietary supplements has been restricted in many countries.
Ephedra plants thrive in dry, sandy, and rocky soils, making them well-suited to desert landscapes. They require little water and are highly drought-resistant. While not commonly grown for fruit, Ephedra remains an important plant in traditional medicine and is valued for its ability to survive in extreme conditions.
Etrog
Etrog (Citrus medica) is an ancient citrus fruit that has been cultivated for thousands of years. It is particularly significant in Jewish culture, where it plays a central role in the religious observance of Sukkot. The fruit is large, oblong, and bright yellow, with a thick, bumpy rind and a fragrant, citrusy aroma. Unlike many other citrus fruits, Etrog contains relatively little juice, and its pulp is often dry and mildly sour.
While it is not typically eaten fresh due to its dryness and intense flavor, Etrog is commonly used to make candied peel, marmalades, and liqueurs. The thick rind is highly aromatic and rich in essential oils, making it a valuable ingredient in perfumery and natural remedies. In Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, it is sometimes preserved in sugar or salt to be used in desserts and savory dishes.
Etrog trees require a warm, subtropical climate with well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. They are sensitive to cold temperatures and need careful cultivation to ensure high-quality fruit production. Although its primary cultural significance is religious, Etrog is also appreciated for its medicinal and culinary applications, making it one of the most historically important citrus fruits.
European Pear
The European Pear (Pyrus communis) is one of the most widely cultivated pear species, known for its sweet, juicy flesh and smooth or slightly gritty texture. It originates from Europe and western Asia and has been cultivated for centuries for both fresh consumption and culinary use. The fruit is typically bell-shaped, with a thin, green to yellow skin that may develop a red blush when ripe.
European pears are enjoyed fresh, but they also excel in baking, poaching, and preserving. Their soft, buttery texture makes them perfect for desserts such as tarts and crisps, while their mild sweetness complements cheeses and salads. Some well-known varieties include Bartlett, Anjou, and Bosc, each with slightly different flavors and textures. Pears are also used to make perry, a traditional alcoholic beverage similar to cider.
Pear trees thrive in temperate climates with well-drained soil and full sun exposure. They require a period of winter chill to produce fruit successfully, making them best suited for regions with distinct seasons. While they are relatively low-maintenance, pruning is necessary to promote healthy growth and prevent overcrowding. European pears are typically harvested before they fully ripen and allowed to soften at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Evergreen Huckleberry
The Evergreen Huckleberry (Vaccinium ovatum) is a small, dark purple berry native to the Pacific Northwest of North America. This hardy shrub produces glossy, dark green leaves and small, bell-shaped pink flowers, which give way to clusters of edible berries in late summer to early fall. The berries have a sweet-tart flavor, similar to blueberries but with a more intense taste.
Evergreen Huckleberries are commonly foraged rather than commercially grown due to the plant’s slow growth and preference for natural forest environments. The fruit is used in jams, pies, syrups, and even dried as a snack. It has a high antioxidant content, making it a nutritious addition to a balanced diet. Indigenous groups have traditionally used the berries for food and medicine, valuing them for their vitamin-rich properties.
The plant thrives in acidic, well-drained soil and partial shade, often growing in coastal forests and mountainous regions. It is highly adaptable and can be cultivated as an ornamental shrub in gardens due to its attractive foliage and resilience to harsh conditions. While it requires patience to establish, the reward of flavorful berries and a low-maintenance plant makes it a valuable addition to edible landscapes.
Eastern Hawthorn Fruit
The Eastern Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) is a small, red fruit that grows on thorny shrubs and trees native to North America. These fruits, often called "haws," resemble miniature apples and have a tart, slightly sweet taste. They ripen in late summer and persist on the tree into the fall, providing an important food source for birds and wildlife.
Hawthorn berries have been used in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly for heart health. They contain antioxidants and flavonoids that are believed to support cardiovascular function. The fruit is often made into teas, tinctures, and herbal supplements, though it is also used in jellies, syrups, and even wine. While some varieties of hawthorn have more palatable fruit, others can be quite astringent and are better suited for processing rather than fresh eating.
Hawthorn trees are hardy and adaptable, thriving in a wide range of soil conditions. They are commonly planted as ornamental trees due to their attractive spring blossoms and vibrant fall foliage. The dense branches and thorny nature of the plant also make it a popular choice for natural hedging and wildlife habitats. Despite their slow growth, Eastern Hawthorns are valued for both their medicinal properties and their contribution to ecological diversity.
Egg Fruit
Egg Fruit (Pouteria campechiana), also known as Canistel, is a tropical fruit native to Central America and the Caribbean. It gets its name from its bright yellow flesh, which has a texture similar to a hard-boiled egg yolk. The fruit is typically oval or round, with smooth, golden skin and a firm yet creamy interior. It has a mild, sweet flavor, often compared to pumpkin or sweet potato, with hints of vanilla.
Egg Fruit is highly versatile and can be eaten fresh or incorporated into various culinary applications. Due to its dense, custard-like consistency, it is often blended into smoothies, milkshakes, and ice creams. In some regions, it is also used to make jams, pastries, and even flour for baking. The fruit is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber, making it a nutritious choice for those seeking a naturally sweet and satisfying snack.
The tree thrives in warm, tropical climates and is relatively low-maintenance, requiring well-drained soil and moderate watering. It is a drought-tolerant species, making it a good option for dry regions. While it is not as commercially widespread as other tropical fruits, Egg Fruit is gaining recognition for its unique taste and nutritional benefits, making it an interesting addition to exotic fruit collections.
Eggplant
Eggplant (Solanum melongena), also known as aubergine, is a widely cultivated fruit used as a vegetable in various cuisines worldwide. It originates from South and Southeast Asia but has been grown and consumed globally for centuries. The fruit comes in many shapes and colors, from the classic deep purple, oblong variety to white, green, or striped cultivars. Its spongy flesh has a mild, slightly bitter taste that becomes rich and creamy when cooked.
Eggplant is a staple ingredient in dishes such as ratatouille, baba ganoush, moussaka, and eggplant parmesan. Its ability to absorb flavors makes it an excellent addition to stir-fries, curries, and roasted vegetable dishes. It is a good source of fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, particularly nasunin, a powerful compound found in its purple skin that supports brain health.
Eggplants require warm temperatures, full sun, and well-drained soil to grow successfully. They are relatively easy to cultivate but can be susceptible to pests such as aphids and flea beetles. Regular watering and mulching help maintain moisture levels, promoting healthy fruit development. As a versatile and nutritious fruit, eggplant remains an essential ingredient in many global cuisines.
Ensete
Ensete (Ensete ventricosum), commonly known as the False Banana or Ethiopian Banana, is a large, banana-like plant native to East Africa. While it resembles a true banana plant, it does not produce edible fruits in the same way. Instead, its starchy underground corm and leaf stalks are used as a staple food source, particularly in Ethiopia, where it is known as enset and plays a crucial role in food security.
The plant is cultivated primarily for its carbohydrate-rich pseudostem and corm, which are processed into a fermented food called kocho, similar to a flatbread. The fibrous pulp can also be cooked and eaten, while the leaves are used for wrapping food and providing shelter. Ensete is highly drought-resistant and can be stored underground for long periods, making it an essential crop in regions prone to food shortages.
Ensete plants require warm, humid conditions and deep, fertile soil for optimal growth. They are primarily grown in highland areas of Ethiopia, where they form the backbone of the local agricultural system. Although little-known outside of Africa, Ensete has gained attention for its potential role in climate-resilient farming due to its ability to withstand drought and provide a reliable food source year-round.
Fruits that start with "E" offer a fascinating mix of flavors, textures, and uses, from sweet and juicy to tart and fibrous. Some are well-known staples, while others remain hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Their nutritional benefits, culinary versatility, and adaptability to different growing conditions make them valuable additions to both diets and gardens. Exploring these fruits introduces new tastes and opportunities to appreciate the diversity of nature’s offerings.