Native African fruits that have created million-dollar industries outside the continent

The Sclerocarya fruit of the Marula tree

Marula Fruit

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If you are a fan of liqueurs, this particular name must ring a bell. The medium sized sweet fruit known as Sclerocarya birrea has become one of the money-making ventures of South Africa in the production of Amarula cream liqueur.  It is estimated that only 30% of the Amarula produced stays in South Africa, the rest is exported to other countries, mostly outside of Africa. The fruit grows on the Marula tree which is sometimes called the Elephant tree. Surprisingly, the popularity of this fruit does not go beyond the borders of South Africa.

The drink is so popular that it recently gained a listing on board of Emirates flights. It is also used for making beer, wine and jam.