The letter “M” introduces a diverse collection of fruits that delight the senses and add vibrancy to diets around the world. From tropical marvels and citrusy delights to antioxidant-rich berries, these “M” fruits span a variety of textures, flavors, and health benefits. Many of these fruits, like mangoes and melons, are enjoyed fresh, while others bring unique zest and richness to recipes in smoothies, desserts, and savory dishes. Their health benefits range from providing essential vitamins and minerals to boosting immunity and supporting heart health. Here’s a list of 60 purely edible and real fruits that start with the letter “M.”
“A quick reminder before trying a new fruit: Some fruits may not be safe to eat raw, and others could be mistaken for inedible or harmful varieties. Do proper research before consuming unfamiliar fruits to ensure safety.”
Fruits that begin with the letter M
1. Macadamia Fruit
Originating from Australia, Macadamia fruit has a rich, buttery taste, often enjoyed as a nut. It’s harvested in the fall. Known for its healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and antioxidants, it supports heart health. Commonly used in baking and desserts, macadamia nuts add richness to both sweet and savory dishes. The scientific name is Macadamia integrifolia.
2. Madrono Fruit
Native to Central America, Madrono fruit has a sweet, mildly tangy flavor. It’s usually in season during the summer months. This fruit is rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, promoting digestive and immune health. Often enjoyed fresh, it can also be used in jellies or jams. The scientific name is Rheedia madruno.
3. Madagascar Plum
This plum, native to Madagascar, has a sweet, slightly tart taste similar to typical plums. The fruit is in season during late summer. Known for its high vitamin C content and antioxidants, it aids in boosting immunity and skin health. Madagascar plums are enjoyed fresh or in desserts and jams. The scientific name is Flacourtia indica.
4. Mamey Sapote
Mamey Sapote, native to Central America, has a creamy, sweet flavor reminiscent of pumpkin and sweet potato. It’s harvested primarily in late spring to early fall. This nutrient-rich fruit supports immune health, energy, and skin vitality. Mamey is often used in smoothies, desserts, or enjoyed fresh. The scientific name is Pouteria sapota.
5. Mamoncillo
Also known as Spanish lime, Mamoncillo is native to the Caribbean. The taste is sweet and slightly tart, similar to lychee. It’s in season during the summer. High in fiber, vitamin A, and minerals, it supports digestion and skin health. This fruit is eaten fresh or added to beverages and desserts. The scientific name is Melicoccus bijugatus.
6. Mandarin Orange
Mandarin oranges, originating from Southeast Asia, are sweet and slightly tangy. They are in season from November to January. Rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, mandarins boost immunity and aid digestion. Commonly enjoyed fresh, mandarins are also used in salads, desserts, and juices. The scientific name is Citrus reticulata.
7. Mango
Native to South Asia, mangoes are sweet and juicy, with some varieties having a slight tartness. They are typically in season from May to September. Mangoes are rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, supporting skin health and digestion. They are widely used in smoothies, salads, and desserts. The scientific name is Mangifera indica.
8. Mangaba
Originating from Brazil, Mangaba has a sweet, creamy flavor. This tropical fruit is usually in season from November to March. High in vitamin C and antioxidants, Mangaba promotes immune health and aids in skin repair. It is often used in desserts, juices, and jams. The scientific name is Hancornia speciosa.
9. Mangifera Caesia (Binjai)
Native to Southeast Asia, Binjai has a unique sweet-sour flavor. It’s typically in season during the rainy season in its native regions. This fruit is rich in vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber, aiding digestion and immunity. Often eaten fresh, it’s also used in smoothies and savory dishes. The scientific name is Mangifera caesia
10. Mangosteen
Mangosteen, from Southeast Asia, is sweet and slightly tangy. It’s in season from June to August. Known for its antioxidants and vitamin C content, mangosteen supports immune health and skin vitality. The fruit is enjoyed fresh or added to desserts. The scientific name is Garcinia mangostana.
11. Maracuja (Passion Fruit)
Passion fruit, native to South America, has a tart and sweet taste with floral notes. It’s in season from summer to fall. Rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, it aids digestion and boosts immunity. Passion fruit is popular in drinks, desserts, and sauces. The scientific name is Passiflora edulis.
12. Marang
Marang, native to Borneo and the Philippines, has a creamy, sweet taste with hints of banana and pineapple. It’s in season during the rainy season. High in vitamins A and C, it promotes eye health and immunity. Marang is best eaten fresh or added to desserts. The scientific name is Artocarpus odoratissimus.
13. Maraschino Cherry
The Maraschino cherry, originally from Croatia, has a sweet flavor, often candied or preserved. It’s harvested in summer. High in vitamins A and C, it supports immunity and skin health. Maraschino cherries are popular in cocktails, desserts, and garnishes. The scientific name is Prunus cerasus.
14. Marisol Clementine
Native to Spain, the Marisol clementine has a sweet, juicy flavor. It is typically in season in winter. High in vitamin C and fiber, it supports immunity and digestion. These clementines are enjoyed fresh or used in salads, sauces, and desserts. The scientific name is Citrus reticulata.
15. Marula Fruit
Native to Africa, Marula fruit has a sweet, citrusy flavor with hints of apple. It is in season from February to April. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, it supports skin health and immunity. Marula fruit is used in juices, jams, and the popular Amarula liqueur. The scientific name is Sclerocarya birrea.
16. Masak Hijau Banana
Originally from Indonesia, the Masak Hijau banana has a mild, sweet flavor and is ideal for cooking. It’s available year-round. High in potassium, fiber, and vitamins, it aids digestion and heart health. Commonly used in frying or baking, it adds flavor to savory and sweet dishes. The scientific name is Musa acuminata.
17. Masau Berry
Native to Africa, Masau Berry has a tart, apple-like flavor. It’s in season during the dry months. This fruit is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, supporting digestion and immune health. Masau berries are often dried or used in jams and sauces. The scientific name is Ziziphus mauritiana.
18. Matoa
Originating from Papua, Indonesia, Matoa has a sweet taste reminiscent of longan and lychee. The fruit is harvested in the rainy season. It is high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, supporting immunity and skin health. Matoa is usually eaten fresh or added to fruit salads. The scientific name is Pometia pinnata.
19. Mayhaw
Native to the southern United States, Mayhaw has a tart, slightly sweet taste. It’s in season from April to June. This berry is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting immune health. Mayhaw is commonly used in jellies, syrups, and sauces. The scientific name is Crataegus aestivalis.
20. McIntosh Apple
Originally from Canada, McIntosh apples have a crisp, slightly tart flavor. They’re in season from September to November. High in fiber and vitamin C, they support digestion and immunity. These apples are popular in baking, sauces, and eaten fresh. The scientific name is Malus domestica.
21. Medlar
Native to the Mediterranean region, Medlar has a unique tart and sweet flavor once bletted (softened). It’s typically in season in late fall. Medlar is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, supporting digestive health and immunity. It’s commonly used in jellies, jams, and desserts. The scientific name is Mespilus germanica.
22. Melinjo
Melinjo, native to Southeast Asia, has a nutty, slightly bitter flavor, often used in Indonesian cuisine. It’s harvested throughout the year. High in antioxidants, iron, and vitamins, Melinjo promotes immune health and energy. Commonly used in soups and crackers, its leaves are also edible. The scientific name is Gnetum gnemon.
23. Melon
Melons, originating from Africa and Southwest Asia, come in varieties like cantaloupe and honeydew, each with a juicy, sweet flavor. They’re in season during the summer months. Rich in water content, vitamin C, and potassium, melons support hydration and heart health. Commonly enjoyed fresh, melons are also used in salads, smoothies, and desserts. The scientific name varies by type, such as Cucumis melo for cantaloupe.
24. Melon Pear
Native to South America, Melon Pear has a mild, sweet taste similar to cucumber and honeydew. It’s typically in season during late summer. Rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, it promotes digestion and skin health. Melon Pears are enjoyed fresh or in fruit salads. The scientific name is Solanum muricatum.
25. Mexican Plum
Native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, the Mexican Plum has a tart and sweet flavor. It’s usually harvested in late summer to early fall. This plum is high in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, aiding in immune support and digestion. It’s often used in jellies, sauces, or eaten fresh. The scientific name is Prunus mexicana.
26. Meyer Lemon
Originally from China, Meyer lemons have a sweeter, less acidic taste compared to regular lemons. They’re in season from November to March. High in vitamin C and antioxidants, Meyer lemons support immunity and skin health. They are popular in baking, sauces, and beverages. The scientific name is Citrus × meyeri.
27. Miracle Fruit
Native to West Africa, Miracle Fruit has a mildly sweet taste, but its unique quality is in altering the taste of sour foods to sweet. It’s in season in tropical climates year-round. It contains antioxidants and can support taste-modifying therapies. Often used fresh or in flavor-altering experiences, the scientific name is Synsepalum dulcificum.
28. Mirabelle Plum
Originating from France, Mirabelle plums have a sweet, honey-like flavor. They are in season during late summer. Rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, they support digestive health and immunity. Commonly used in jams, desserts, and brandy, Mirabelle plums are a delicacy. The scientific name is Prunus domestica subsp. syriaca.
29. Mora Berry
Native to South America, Mora berries have a tart, slightly sweet taste similar to blackberries. They are in season during the summer. High in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, they aid digestion and immune support. Mora berries are often used in jams, juices, and desserts. The scientific name is Rubus glaucus.
30. Morello Cherry
Morello cherries, from Eastern Europe, have a sour and slightly sweet taste, ideal for cooking. They’re in season during late summer. High in antioxidants and vitamins, they support heart health and reduce inflammation. Morello cherries are popular in pies, sauces, and preserves. The scientific name is Prunus cerasus.
31. Moriche Palm Fruit
Native to South America, Moriche Palm fruit has a creamy, nutty flavor. It’s typically harvested during the dry season. High in vitamins A, C, and fiber, it supports skin health and immune function. The fruit is eaten fresh or used in drinks and desserts. The scientific name is Mauritia flexuosa.
32. Mountain Apple
Originating from Southeast Asia, Mountain Apple has a crisp, sweet taste similar to a regular apple. It’s in season during late summer. Rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, it promotes digestive and immune health. Often enjoyed fresh, it’s also used in fruit salads. The scientific name is Syzygium malaccense.
33. Mulberry
Native to China, Mulberries have a juicy, sweet-tart flavor. They’re in season in spring and early summer. Packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, they support heart health and immunity. Mulberries are used in jams, desserts, and eaten fresh. The scientific name is Morus species.
34. Muntingia Berry
Native to tropical America, Muntingia berries are small, red, and sweet. They are available year-round in tropical climates. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, these berries support skin health and immunity. Muntingia berries are often eaten fresh or used in jams. The scientific name is Muntingia calabura.
35. Muscadine Grape
Muscadine grapes, native to the southeastern United States, have a robust, sweet flavor. They’re in season from August to October. High in antioxidants, they promote heart health and may support anti-inflammatory functions. Muscadines are used in wine, jelly, and fresh eating. The scientific name is Vitis rotundifolia.
36. Muskmelon
Originating from Persia, muskmelon has a sweet, juicy taste. It’s in season during the summer. High in vitamins A and C and hydration properties, muskmelon supports skin health and hydration. It’s enjoyed fresh, in salads, or in smoothies. The scientific name is Cucumis melo.
37. Mabol
Mabol is native to West Africa and has a creamy, sweet taste, similar to avocado. It’s available in tropical climates year-round. High in healthy fats and fiber, it supports heart health and digestion. The fruit is often eaten fresh or added to salads. The scientific name is Mimusops kummel.
38. Malabar Plum
Native to India, Malabar plum has a sweet, slightly acidic flavor. It’s typically in season during the summer. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, it supports immunity and skin health. This fruit is enjoyed fresh or made into jellies and preserves. The scientific name is Syzygium cumini.
39. Malay Apple
Malay apple, native to Malaysia, has a sweet, juicy taste similar to a mild apple. It’s in season during summer. High in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, it promotes skin health and immunity. Malay apples are often eaten fresh or used in salads. The scientific name is Syzygium malaccense.
40. Malayan Red Banana
Native to Southeast Asia, Malayan Red bananas have a sweeter, creamier taste than regular bananas. They’re in season year-round. Rich in potassium, fiber, and antioxidants, they support heart health and digestion. These bananas are often eaten fresh, in desserts, or smoothies. The scientific name is Musa acuminata.
41. Mamey Apple
Mamey apple, native to the Caribbean, has a creamy, mildly sweet taste. It’s typically in season during the warmer months. High in vitamins A and C and antioxidants, it promotes immune health and eye health. Mamey apple is used in smoothies, desserts, and enjoyed fresh. The scientific name is Mammea americana.
42. Mammee Apple
Originating from the Caribbean and Central America, Mammee Apple has a creamy texture with a mildly sweet flavor. It’s in season during summer. High in vitamins A and C, this fruit supports immunity and eye health. Mammee Apple is used in smoothies, jams, and desserts. The scientific name is Mammea Americana.
43. Mandalina (Turkish Mandarin)
Native to Turkey, Mandalina has a sweet, tangy taste, similar to a mandarin orange. It’s typically in season from winter to early spring. Rich in vitamin C, it supports immune health and skin vitality. Commonly enjoyed fresh, it’s also used in juices, jams, and desserts. The scientific name is Citrus reticulata.
44. Manila Mango
Originating from the Philippines, Manila Mango has a sweet, creamy flavor with a hint of tartness. It’s in season during spring and summer. High in vitamins A and C, it boosts immunity and promotes skin health. It’s popular in smoothies, desserts, and fresh eating. The scientific name is Mangifera indica.
45. Maprang
Native to Southeast Asia, Maprang has a flavor reminiscent of both mango and plum. It’s in season during the summer. Rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, it promotes digestive and immune health. This fruit is eaten fresh or used in salads and desserts. The scientific name is Bouea macrophylla.
46. Marisol Orange
Grown in Spain, Marisol Orange has a sweet, juicy flavor ideal for fresh eating and juicing. It’s in season in winter. Packed with vitamin C, it supports immunity and skin health. Marisol oranges are commonly used in fresh juice, salads, and as snacks. The scientific name is Citrus sinensis.
47. Marracuja
Native to Brazil, Marracuja, also known as yellow passion fruit, has a tangy, tropical taste. It’s in season year-round in tropical climates. High in fiber and vitamin C, it supports digestive health and immunity. Marracuja is commonly used in beverages, desserts, and sauces. The scientific name is Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa.
48. Maui Pineapple
Originating from Hawaii, Maui Pineapple has a sweet, juicy flavor with a lower acidity than typical pineapples. It’s in season throughout the year in tropical areas. High in vitamin C and bromelain, it aids digestion and immune function. Maui pineapples are enjoyed fresh, grilled, or in desserts. The scientific name is Ananas comosus.
49. Merlot Grape
Native to France, Merlot grapes have a sweet, rich flavor, often used in winemaking. They’re in season from late summer to early fall. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, they promote heart health. Merlot grapes are popular in wines, sauces, and desserts. The scientific name is Vitis vinifera.
50. Minneola Tangelo
Minneola Tangelo, a hybrid from the U.S., has a tangy, slightly sweet flavor and juicy flesh. It’s in season from winter to early spring. High in vitamin C, fiber, and folate, it supports immunity and heart health. Minneola Tangelos are enjoyed fresh, in juices, and in desserts. The scientific name is Citrus × tangelo.
51. Macoun Apple
Macoun apples, originating from the northeastern United States, have a sweet, aromatic flavor with a hint of tartness. They’re in season in fall. High in fiber and antioxidants, they promote digestive and heart health. Macoun apples are great for fresh eating, baking, and applesauce. The scientific name is Malus domestica.
52. Madeleine Angevine Grape
Originating in France, Madeleine Angevine grapes have a crisp, mild flavor, often used in white wines. They’re harvested in late summer. Rich in antioxidants, they support heart health and reduce inflammation. The grapes are used in winemaking and fresh eating. The scientific name is Vitis vinifera.
53. Magana Mango
Native to Central America, Magana Mango has a juicy, sweet flavor with tropical undertones. It’s in season in spring and summer. High in vitamin C and fiber, it supports immunity and digestive health. Magana mangoes are popular in smoothies, salads, and desserts. The scientific name is Mangifera indica.
54. Mahachanok Mango
This Thai mango variety is known for its sweet, floral taste. It’s harvested in spring and summer. Rich in vitamins A and C, it supports eye and skin health. Mahachanok mangoes are enjoyed fresh, in smoothies, and in desserts. The scientific name is Mangifera indica.
55. Malaga Grape
Native to Spain, Malaga grapes have a sweet, juicy flavor, commonly used in winemaking and drying. They’re harvested in late summer to early fall. High in antioxidants, they support heart health. Malaga grapes are used in wines, raisins, and fresh snacks. The scientific name is Vitis vinifera.
56. Malpighia (Acerola Cherry)
Native to the Caribbean and Central America, Acerola cherries have a tart, sweet flavor. They’re in season year-round in tropical climates. Extremely high in vitamin C, they support immune health and skin vitality. Acerola is often used in juices, jams, and smoothies. The scientific name is Malpighia emarginata.
57. Mammee Sapote
Native to Central America, Mammee Sapote has a sweet, creamy flavor similar to apricot. It’s in season during the warmer months. High in vitamins A and C, it promotes skin and immune health. This fruit is commonly used in desserts, smoothies, and fresh eating. The scientific name is Pouteria sapota.
58. Mandarinquat
A cross between a mandarin and a kumquat, Mandarinquats have a sweet and tart taste. They’re in season in winter. Rich in vitamin C and fiber, they support immunity and digestion. Mandarinquats are used in jams, candies, and fresh eating. The scientific name is Citrus reticulata × japonica.
59. Mango Melon
Also called mango melon, this fruit is native to South America and has a sweet, cantaloupe-like flavor. It’s in season during summer. High in water content and vitamin C, it supports hydration and immune health. Mango melon is enjoyed fresh, in fruit salads, and smoothies. The scientific name is Cucumis melo.
60. Mangaba Plum
Native to Brazil, Mangaba Plum has a sweet, slightly tart flavor. It’s typically harvested in the rainy season. Rich in vitamins A and C, it supports immune and skin health. Mangaba is often used in juices, ice creams, and desserts. The scientific name is Hancornia speciosa.
