What is Isis Fruit?
"Isis fruit" is a common name that most often refers to the fruit of Ficus ulmifolia, a native Philippine fig tree. This small tree or large shrub is well-known in the Philippines, not just for its edible fruit but also for its very rough, sandpaper-like leaves, which are traditionally used for scrubbing and polishing wood and kitchen utensils. This scouring ability is what gives the tree its local name, "is-is," meaning "to scrub". The fruit itself is a syconium, a type of false fruit common to the fig family, with numerous tiny flowers and seeds enclosed within a fleshy receptacle.
Can you eat the Philippine native isis fruit?
Yes, the fruit of the Ficus ulmifolia is edible once it is fully ripe. According to multiple sources, the ripened, marble-sized, red or maroon fruit can be eaten, though it is described as having a bland or slightly sweet flavor. It is important to only consume the ripe fruit. The unripe green fruit is known to have some level of toxicity and should be avoided. The seeds within the fruit are also small and can be eaten with the pulp. Because of its mild taste, it is sometimes eaten with sugar or cream in the Philippines to enhance the flavor. Other native Philippine fig species, like Ficus nota (tibig), also have edible but often bland fruits.
Potential Confusion: The Isis Dragon Fruit
An important clarification is necessary due to the modern use of the name "Isis." There is a cultivated variety of yellow dragon fruit, developed in Israel, which is also called "Isis Gold" or "Israeli Golden". This fruit is known for its sweet, tropical flavor and belongs to a completely different plant family (Cactaceae) from the native Philippine fig. The two fruits are entirely different in appearance, taste, and origin. It is crucial to distinguish between them to avoid confusion, especially if foraging for the native fig.
| Feature | Native Philippine Isis Fruit (Ficus ulmifolia) | Isis Gold Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus undatus Hybrid) |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Ficus ulmifolia | Hylocereus undatus Hybrid (e.g., Isis Gold) |
| Common Name | Isis, Is-is (Tagalog), Scouring Leaf | Isis Gold, Israeli Golden |
| Appearance | Small, round, marble-sized, and typically maroon or red when ripe. | Large, elongated, with bright yellow skin and scales. |
| Flavor Profile | Bland or slightly sweet; often requires additional sugar for flavor. | Very sweet with a refreshing, sometimes lemony aftertaste. |
| Habitat | Endemic to the Philippines, often growing wild in thickets and open urban spaces. | Bred in Israel and cultivated in tropical/subtropical regions. |
| Edibility Notes | Edible when ripe; unripe fruit should not be consumed. | Edible; the white flesh contains edible black seeds. |
Traditional Uses and Benefits of Ficus ulmifolia
Beyond its edible fruit, the native isis plant has several traditional uses in the Philippines, particularly related to its rough leaves. Before modern cleaning materials became widespread, the leaves were a staple for household scrubbing.
- Scouring: The tough, textured leaves are used to clean kitchen utensils, floors, and wood surfaces.
- Medicinal Properties: In folk medicine, the leaves have been used to treat various ailments, including asthma, diabetes, diarrhea, and certain types of cancer. Studies have also indicated potential antioxidant and antihyperglycemic properties.
- Nutritional Value: While the bland fruit isn't a nutritional powerhouse, other species within the genus Ficus (such as the common fig, Ficus carica) are well-known for being rich in fiber, minerals, and vitamins. Though direct nutritional data for Ficus ulmifolia is limited, it is likely to offer some dietary fiber and nutrients.
A Note on Safe Consumption
If you plan to consume the native isis fruit from a Ficus ulmifolia tree, it is crucial to follow these steps to ensure safety:
- Positive Identification: Confirm that the plant is indeed a native Philippine fig and not another species. Look for the characteristic rough leaves. When in doubt, it is best to avoid consuming the fruit.
- Ensure Ripeness: Only consume fruit that is fully ripe, typically indicated by a maroon or red color. Unripe fruit is potentially toxic.
- Enhance Flavor: The fruit can be quite bland. It can be prepared with sugar or cream, or used in jams or other recipes, similar to other native fig varieties.
For those interested in native plants, the Ficus ulmifolia is a fascinating species with a rich history in Filipino culture, prized for both its practicality and its edible fruit. Always exercise caution when foraging and consuming wild plants. For authoritative information on local plants, consult native plant groups or botanists, like the "Filipino Interest Group for Philippine Figs".
Conclusion
The fruit of the native Philippine tree commonly known as "isis" or Ficus ulmifolia is edible when ripe but lacks significant flavor. This is distinct from the commercially available "Isis Gold" dragon fruit, which is known for its sweetness. The plant is more historically and traditionally significant for its abrasive leaves, used for cleaning, and its leaves have been used in traditional medicine. Foragers should ensure correct identification and only consume the ripe fruit to avoid any potential toxicity associated with the unripe berries.
