22+ Tasty Fruits that Start with N that Are Natural!

Hello, fruity comrades and flavor explorers! 

Are you ready to dive into the delightful world of fruits that start with the noble letter ‘N’? 

Get set for a nourishing journey filled with nature’s sweet treasures, from the nuanced sweetness of Nectarines to the novel crunch of Nance. 

Yummy Fruits that Start with N

These ‘N’ fruits are like the hidden gems of the orchard, each bringing its own natural goodness to the fruity symphony. 

Grab your fruit basket, and let’s embark on this nutritious adventure together!

Naartjie

Scientific Name:  Citrus reticulata

Classification:  Family: Rutaceae; Dicotyledonous

Naartjie, also known as Clementine or Satsuma, is a citrus fruit with a thin, easy-to-peel skin and juicy segments.

The fruit has a sweet and tangy flavor, making it a popular choice for fresh consumption and juicing.

Origin: Indigenous to Southeast Asia, now cultivated in various citrus-growing regions.

Types:  Different cultivars within the Citrus reticulata species, each with unique taste profiles.

Flavor: Naartjies offer a sweet and refreshing citrus flavor.

Nutrition:  Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, Naartjies contribute to a healthful diet.

Benefits: Naartjies are valued for their convenient size, juiciness, and nutritional content.

Top Producing Country:  Cultivated in various countries with suitable climates for citrus production.

Fun Fact:  Naartjies are often associated with the holiday season in some regions and are included in festive fruit baskets.

Nagami Kumquat

Scientific Name:  Fortunella margarita

Classification:  Family: Rutaceae; Dicotyledonous

Nagami Kumquat is a small citrus fruit with an edible peel and tart pulp. The fruit is often eaten whole, and its unique combination of sweetness and tartness makes it a popular addition to culinary dishes, beverages, and preserves.

Origin: Indigenous to East Asia, particularly China and Japan.

Types:  Different varieties within the Fortunella genus, each with variations in fruit size and taste.

Flavor: Nagami Kumquats offer a sweet and tart flavor, with the peel providing an additional citrusy burst.

Nutrition:  Rich in vitamin C and dietary fiber, Nagami Kumquats are a nutritious snack.

Benefits: Nagami Kumquats are valued for their unique taste and potential health benefits.

Top Producing Country:  Cultivated in various citrus-producing regions, including China and Japan.

Fun Fact:  Nagami Kumquats are often used in decorative arrangements and are enjoyed as a bite-sized, tangy snack.

Nageia

Scientific Name:  Nageia nagi

Classification:  Family: Podocarpaceae; Gymnosperm (cone-bearing plant)

Nageia, also known as the sacred tree in Japan, is an evergreen conifer with glossy, needle-like leaves.

While not a fruit-bearing tree, it holds cultural significance in traditional Japanese Shinto rituals and is considered sacred.

Origin: Indigenous to Japan and other parts of East Asia.

Types:  Different species within the Nageia genus, each adapted to specific environmental conditions.

Flavor: Nageia does not produce edible fruits; its significance lies in cultural and religious practices.

Nutrition:  Not applicable for consumption; Nageia is valued for its symbolic importance.

Benefits: Nageia is revered in Shinto rituals and is often planted as a sacred tree in Japanese gardens.

Top Producing Country:  Indigenous to Japan, where it holds cultural and spiritual importance.

Fun Fact:  Nageia nagi is associated with the Shinto deity Konohanasakuya-hime, symbolizing the transient beauty of cherry blossoms.

Nam Dok Mai

Scientific Name:  Mangifera indica

Classification:  Family: Anacardiaceae; Dicotyledonous

Nam Dok Mai, a variety of mango, is known for its sweet and fragrant flesh. The mango is large, with a thin skin and a characteristic elongated shape.

Nam Dok Mai mangoes are often enjoyed fresh, in salads, or as a dessert ingredient.

Origin: Indigenous to Thailand, now cultivated in various tropical regions.

Types:  Different mango varieties within the Mangifera indica species, with Nam Dok Mai being a distinct cultivar.

Flavor: Nam Dok Mai mangoes offer a rich, sweet, and floral flavor.

Nutrition:  Rich in vitamins A and C, Nam Dok Mai mangoes contribute to a healthful diet.

Benefits: Nam Dok Mai mangoes are valued for their delicious taste and nutritional content.

Top Producing Country:  Thailand is a significant producer of Nam Dok Mai mangoes.

Fun Fact:  Nam Dok Mai mangoes are celebrated in Thai culture and are often presented as gifts during special occasions, symbolizing sweetness and good fortune.

Nance

Scientific Name:  Byrsonima crassifolia

Classification:  Family: Malpighiaceae; Dicotyledonous

Nance is a small, yellow fruit with a thin, edible skin and a tangy-sweet flavor. Commonly eaten fresh, the fruit is also used in culinary applications, such as making jams, jellies, and beverages.

Origin: Indigenous to tropical regions of the Americas, including Central and South America.

Types:  Different varieties within the Byrsonima genus, each with variations in fruit size and taste.

Flavor: Nance fruits offer a unique blend of tartness and sweetness.

Nutrition:  Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, Nance fruits contribute to a healthful diet.

Benefits: Nance is valued for its distinctive taste and potential health benefits.

Top Producing Country:  Cultivated in various tropical regions, including parts of Central and South America.

Fun Fact:  In some Latin American cultures, Nance is considered a symbol of good luck and prosperity, and the fruit is enjoyed during festive occasions and celebrations.

Naples Fig

Scientific Name:  Ficus carica

Classification:  Family: Moraceae; Dicotyledonous

Naples Fig, a variety of the common fig, is a deciduous tree with lobed leaves and sweet, pear-shaped fruits.

The figs are enjoyed fresh or dried and are used in various culinary applications, including desserts, jams, and salads.

Origin: Indigenous to Western Asia, now cultivated in Mediterranean regions and other suitable climates.

Types:  Different fig varieties within the Ficus carica species, with Naples Fig being a distinct cultivar.

Flavor: Naples Figs offer a sweet and honey-like flavor.

Nutrition:  Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, Naples Figs contribute to a healthful diet.

Benefits: Naples Figs are valued for their sweet taste, versatility in cooking, and potential health benefits.

Top Producing Country:  Mediterranean countries, such as Turkey and Greece, are significant producers of figs.

Fun Fact:  Fig trees, including the Naples Fig, have cultural and symbolic significance in various societies and are often associated with fertility and abundance.

Naranjilla

Scientific Name:  Solanum quitoense

Classification:  Family: Solanaceae; Dicotyledonous

Naranjilla, also known as Lulo, is a subtropical perennial plant producing round, orange fruits with a unique combination of citrus and pineapple flavors.

The fruits are commonly used in beverages, desserts, and sauces.

Origin: Indigenous to the Andean region of South America, particularly in Ecuador and Colombia.

Types:  Different varieties within the Solanum quitoense species, each with variations in fruit size and taste.

Flavor: Naranjilla offers a refreshing blend of citrus and tropical fruit flavors.

Nutrition:  Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, Naranjilla contributes to a healthful diet.

Benefits: Naranjilla is valued for its distinctive taste and potential health benefits.

Top Producing Country:  Ecuador is a significant producer of Naranjilla.

Fun Fact:  Naranjilla is often used to make refreshing beverages, including juices and smoothies, in South American cuisine.

Narenj

Scientific Name:  Citrus × aurantium

Classification:  Family: Rutaceae; Dicotyledonous

Narenj, also known as Bitter Orange, is a citrus tree producing bitter fruits used for their peel and essential oil.

The bitter orange flavor is infused into various culinary and beverage recipes, and the peel is used in the production of marmalade and liqueurs.

Origin: Indigenous to Southeast Asia, now cultivated in various citrus-growing regions.

Types:  Different cultivars within the Citrus × aurantium hybrid, each with unique aromatic profiles.

Flavor: Narenj offers a distinct bitter flavor, primarily used for its aromatic peel.

Nutrition:  Bitter oranges are not typically consumed directly due to their intense bitterness.

Benefits: Bitter orange peel is used for its essential oil, which has aromatic and flavor-enhancing properties.

Top Producing Country:  Various countries with suitable climates for citrus production contribute to the global supply of bitter oranges.

Fun Fact:  Bitter orange oil is used in the production of traditional fragrances, and the tree has cultural significance in some regions.

Nashi Pear

Scientific Name:  Pyrus pyrifolia

Classification:  Family: Rosaceae; Dicotyledonous

Nashi Pear, also known as Asian Pear or Apple Pear, is a deciduous tree producing crisp, juicy fruits.

Unlike traditional pears, Nashi Pears are round and have a texture similar to apples. They are enjoyed fresh, in salads, or as a dessert ingredient.

Origin: Indigenous to East Asia, particularly China, Japan, and Korea.

Types:  Different cultivars within the Pyrus pyrifolia species, each with unique taste profiles.

Flavor: Nashi Pears offer a crisp texture with a sweet and mildly floral flavor.

Nutrition:  Rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, Nashi Pears contribute to a healthful diet.

Benefits: Nashi Pears are valued for their unique texture, sweet taste, and nutritional content.

Top Producing Country:  China is the largest producer of Nashi Pears.

Fun Fact:  Nashi Pears are often used in Asian cuisines and are appreciated for their refreshing taste and crunchy texture.

Natal Plum

Scientific Name:  Carissa macrocarpa

Classification:  Family: Apocynaceae; Dicotyledonous

Natal Plum is a dense, evergreen shrub producing small, red to dark purple fruits. The fruits have a sweet and tangy flavor and are often used in jams, jellies, and desserts. The shrub is also valued for its ornamental qualities.

Origin: Indigenous to coastal regions of South Africa, now cultivated in various subtropical and tropical areas.

Types:  Different varieties within the Carissa macrocarpa species, each with variations in fruit size and taste.

Flavor: Natal Plums offer a delightful blend of sweetness and tartness.

Nutrition:  Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, Natal Plums contribute to a healthful diet.

Benefits: Natal Plums are valued for their ornamental appeal and culinary uses.

Top Producing Country:  Cultivated in subtropical and tropical regions worldwide, including parts of the Americas and Asia.

Fun Fact:  The natal plum is well-adapted to coastal conditions and is often used in landscaping to create hedges and provide both ornamental and edible features.

Naval Orange

Scientific Name:  Citrus × sinensis

Classification:  Family: Rutaceae; Dicotyledonous

Naval Orange, a popular variety of sweet orange, is a citrus tree known for its seedless and easy-to-peel fruits.

The oranges are prized for their sweet, juicy flesh and are commonly consumed fresh, juiced, or used in culinary applications.

Origin: Indigenous to Southeast Asia, now cultivated in citrus-growing regions worldwide.

Types:  Different sweet orange varieties within the Citrus × sinensis species, with Naval Orange being a distinct cultivar.

Flavor: Naval Oranges offer a sweet and slightly tart flavor with a refreshing citrus aroma.

Nutrition:  Rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, Naval Oranges contribute to a healthful diet.

Benefits: Naval Oranges are valued for their delicious taste, nutritional content, and versatility in cooking.

Top Producing Country:  Various countries with suitable climates for citrus production contribute to the global supply of Naval Oranges.

Fun Fact:  The name “navel” refers to the distinctive belly-button-like formation at the blossom end of the orange, which is a natural mutation that prevents the development of seeds in the fruit.

Nectacot

Scientific Name:  Prunus persica × armeniaca

Classification:  Family: Rosaceae; Dicotyledonous

Nectacot is a hybrid fruit resulting from the cross between a nectarine (Prunus persica) and an apricot (Prunus armeniaca).

It combines the smooth skin and juicy flesh of a nectarine with the sweet and aromatic characteristics of an apricot.

Origin: Cultivated hybrid, created for desirable fruit characteristics.

Types:  Different cultivars within the Prunus persica × armeniaca hybrid, each with unique taste profiles.

Flavor: Nectacots offer a delightful blend of sweetness and a hint of apricot flavor.

Nutrition:  Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, Nectacots contribute to a healthful diet.

Benefits: Nectacots are valued for their unique taste and nutritional content.

Top Producing Country:  Cultivated in regions with suitable climates for both nectarines and apricots.

Fun Fact:  The hybridization of fruit trees, such as the Nectacot, is a practice to develop new varieties with improved taste, texture, and disease resistance.

Nectarine

Scientific Name:  Prunus persica var. nucipersica

Classification:  Family: Rosaceae; Dicotyledonous

Nectarine is a smooth-skinned variety of peach, known for its juicy and flavorful flesh. The fruit can be eaten fresh, sliced in salads, or used in various culinary creations.

Unlike peaches, nectarines have a lack of fuzz on their skin.

Origin: Cultivated variety, likely originating from a natural mutation of peaches.

Types:  Different cultivars within the Prunus persica var. nucipersica variety, each with unique taste profiles.

Flavor: Nectarines offer a sweet and tangy flavor with a smooth, non-fuzzy skin.

Nutrition:  Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, nectarines contribute to a healthful diet.

Benefits: Nectarines are valued for their delicious taste, versatility in cooking, and nutritional content.

Top Producing Country:  Nectarines are cultivated in various countries, with significant production in the United States, China, and Spain.

Fun Fact:  The lack of fuzz on nectarine skin is due to a recessive gene, making the fruit’s texture distinct from its fuzzy peach counterparts.

Neem

Scientific Name:  Azadirachta indica

Classification:  Family: Meliaceae; Dicotyledonous

Neem is an evergreen tree known for its medicinal properties and various uses. The tree produces small, fragrant, white flowers and olive-like fruits.

Neem extracts, oils, and leaves are utilized in traditional medicine, agriculture, and skincare products.

Origin: Indigenous to the Indian subcontinent, now cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions.

Types:  Different varieties within the Azadirachta indica species, each adapted to specific environmental conditions.

Flavor: Neem fruits are bitter and are not typically consumed directly.

Nutrition:  Neem is valued for its bioactive compounds with potential health benefits and pesticidal properties.

Benefits: Neem is used for its antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties in traditional medicine.

Top Producing Country:  India is a major producer of neem products.

Fun Fact:  Neem has cultural and religious significance in Indian traditions and is often referred to as the “Village Pharmacy” due to its diverse uses.

Nepali Hog Plum

Scientific Name:  Choerospondias axillaris

Classification:  Family: Anacardiaceae; Dicotyledonous

Nepali Hog Plum, also known as Lapsi or Nepali Hog Plum, is a deciduous tree producing small, sour fruits. The fruits are used in pickles, chutneys, and traditional beverages. The tree is valued for its hard timber and tolerance to diverse climatic conditions.

Origin: Indigenous to the Himalayan region, including Nepal and Bhutan.

Types:  Different varieties within the Choerospondias axillaris species, each with variations in fruit size and taste.

Flavor: Nepali Hog Plums offer a tangy and sour flavor, commonly used in culinary preparations.

Nutrition:  Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, Nepali Hog Plums contribute to a healthful diet.

Benefits: Nepali Hog Plums are valued for their unique taste and culinary applications.

Top Producing Country:  Indigenous to Nepal, where it holds cultural and culinary importance.

Fun Fact:  Nepali Hog Plum trees are often grown in agroforestry systems, providing both fruit and timber resources to local communities.

Neroli

Scientific Name:  Citrus × aurantium

Classification:  Family: Rutaceae; Dicotyledonous

Neroli is the essential oil derived from the blossoms of bitter orange trees. Known for its sweet, floral fragrance, Neroli oil is used in perfumery, aromatherapy, and skincare products. The oil is prized for its calming and uplifting properties.

Origin: Extracted from the flowers of bitter orange trees, which are indigenous to Southeast Asia but widely cultivated in the Mediterranean region.

Types:  Different varieties and qualities of Neroli oil, depending on the extraction method and origin.

Flavor: Neroli oil has a sweet, floral, and citrusy aroma, often used in perfumes and cosmetics.

Benefits: Neroli is known for its calming effects on the mind and skin-rejuvenating properties in skincare.

Top Producing Country:  Mediterranean countries, particularly Italy and France, are significant producers of Neroli oil.

Fun Fact:  Neroli oil has been used for centuries and is named after Anna Maria de la Tremoille, Princess of Nerola, Italy, who popularized its use in the 17th century.

Newton Pippin Apple

Scientific Name:  Malus domestica ‘Newton Pippin’

Classification:  Family: Rosaceae; Dicotyledonous

Newton Pippin Apple is a classic American apple variety known for its crisp texture and balanced sweet-tart flavor. It has a greenish-yellow skin and is often used for fresh eating, baking, and cider production.

Origin: Believed to have originated in the United States, with the original tree discovered in Newtown (now Elmhurst), New York.

Types:  Different apple varieties within the Malus domestica species, with Newton Pippin being a distinct cultivar.

Flavor: Newton Pippin Apples offer a crisp texture and a well-balanced combination of sweetness and tartness.

Nutrition:  Apples are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, contributing to a healthful diet.

Benefits: Newton Pippin Apples are valued for their versatile use in both fresh and culinary applications.

Top Producing Country:  Cultivated in various apple-producing regions, with historical significance in the United States.

Fun Fact:  Newton Pippin Apples gained popularity in the 18th century and were reportedly a favorite of Thomas Jefferson.

Nocera Grape

Scientific Name:  Vitis vinifera ‘Nocera’

Classification:  Family: Vitaceae; Dicotyledonous

Nocera is a red wine grape variety known for producing wines with deep color and moderate tannins.

It is cultivated in some regions of Italy, particularly in Campania and Calabria, and is used both as a varietal wine and in blends.

Origin: Indigenous to Italy, with historical cultivation in the regions of Campania and Calabria.

Types:  Different grape varieties within the Vitis vinifera species, with Nocera being a distinct wine grape.

Flavor: Nocera wines are characterized by their deep color, moderate tannins, and flavors of dark fruits.

Nutrition:  Grapes, in general, contain antioxidants and resveratrol, which may have health benefits.

Benefits: Nocera contributes to the production of Italian red wines with unique regional characteristics.

Top Producing Country:  Italy, particularly in the regions where Nocera is cultivated.

Fun Fact:  Nocera is often used in blends with other indigenous Italian grape varieties, contributing to the diversity of Italian wines.

Noni

Scientific Name:  Morinda citrifolia

Classification:  Family: Rubiaceae; Dicotyledonous

Noni, also known as Indian mulberry or cheese fruit, is a tropical evergreen tree producing distinctive, knobbly fruits.

The fruits are used in traditional medicine and wellness products, and the leaves and roots also have various applications.

Origin: Indigenous to Southeast Asia, now cultivated in tropical regions worldwide.

Types:  Different varieties within the Morinda citrifolia species, each adapted to specific environmental conditions.

Flavor: Noni fruits have a pungent odor and a bitter taste, often consumed in juices or extracts.

Nutrition:  Noni is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and phytonutrients, with potential health benefits.

Benefits: Noni is traditionally used for its purported health-promoting properties and immune system support.

Top Producing Country:  Cultivated in various tropical regions, including the Pacific Islands, Southeast Asia, and the Caribbean.

Fun Fact:  Noni has a long history of traditional use in Polynesian cultures, and its adaptability has led to its cultivation in diverse tropical climates globally.

Nopal Fruit

Scientific Name:  Opuntia ficus-indica

Classification:  Family: Cactaceae; Dicotyledonous

Nopal fruit, also known as prickly pear or cactus pear, is the edible fruit of the Opuntia cactus. The fruit is vibrant in color, ranging from red to yellow, with a sweet and mildly tangy taste. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, nopal fruit is used in various culinary 

applications, including salads, jams, and beverages.

Origin: Indigenous to the Americas, particularly Mexico, and now cultivated in arid and semi-arid regions worldwide.

Types:  Different varieties within the Opuntia ficus-indica species, each with unique fruit characteristics.

Flavor: Nopal fruit offers a sweet and mildly tangy flavor, reminiscent of watermelon or kiwi.

Nutrition:  High in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, nopal fruit contributes to a healthful diet.

Benefits: Nopal is valued for its nutritional content, potential health benefits, and adaptability to arid climates.

Top Producing Country:  Mexico is a significant producer of nopal fruit.

Fun Fact:  Nopal is not only known for its edible fruits but also for its flat, paddle-shaped stems (nopales), which are also consumed and have a long history of culinary use in Mexican cuisine.

Northern Spy Apple

Scientific Name:  Malus domestica ‘Northern Spy’

Classification:  Family: Rosaceae; Dicotyledonous

Northern Spy Apple is an heirloom apple variety known for its large size, crisp texture, and complex sweet-tart flavor. The apples have a distinctive red blush over a yellow-green background and are excellent for fresh eating, baking, and cider production.

Origin: Believed to have originated in the early 19th century in East Bloomfield, New York, United States.

Types:  Different apple varieties within the Malus domestica species, with Northern Spy being a distinct cultivar.

Flavor: Northern Spy Apples offer a balanced sweetness and tartness with hints of spice.

Nutrition:  Apples are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, contributing to a healthful diet.

Benefits: Northern Spy Apples are valued for their versatile use in both fresh and culinary applications.

Top Producing Country:  Historically significant in the United States, particularly in New York and Michigan.

Fun Fact:  Northern Spy is considered one of the best apples for making cider due to its high sugar content and complex flavor profile.

Nungu

Scientific Name:  Palmyra palm (Borassus flabellifer)

Classification:  Family: Arecaceae; Monocotyledonous

Nungu, also known as ice apple or toddy palm fruit, is the edible fruit of the Palmyra palm tree. The fruit has a translucent, jelly-like texture with a mild sweetness.

It is a popular summer treat in South Asian countries and is often consumed fresh or used in beverages and desserts.

Origin: Indigenous to South Asia, particularly India and Sri Lanka, and now cultivated in tropical regions.

Types:  Different varieties within the Borassus flabellifer species, each with variations in fruit size and taste.

Flavor: Nungu offers a refreshing and mildly sweet flavor, making it a sought-after summer delicacy.

Nutrition:  Nungu is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes, providing hydration in hot climates.

Benefits: Nungu is valued for its cooling properties and nutritional content during the hot summer months.

Top Producing Country:  India is a significant producer of nungu.

Fun Fact:  The sap extracted from the Palmyra palm is used to make palm jaggery and palm sugar, while the leaves are utilized for thatching roofs and making traditional crafts.

Conclusion

And there you have it, my fruity compadres – our nourishing journey through the delightful universe of ‘N’ fruits! 

Wasn’t it a treat savoring the nuanced sweetness of Nectarines and the novel crunch of Nance? 

Happy snacking, my nourishing and nature-loving friends! 

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