The noni is a tropical fruit that is known for its medicinal properties and cheese like smell and taste. Most people find this smell and taste to be too overpowering to eat, so a new challenge has arisen on the internet where the goal is to eat the noni fruit. In these challenges the fruit is often referred to as either “vomit fruit” or “puke fruit.” I find these names to be a bit of an exaggeration.

Noni Fruit Farming: A Complete Cultivation Guide

The noni belongs to the Rubiaceae family, otherwise known as the coffee family. It is native to Southeast Asia, but it can now be seen naturalized in many tropical areas all over the world. Locals eat it it fresh, fermented, or cooked. Different parts of the tree are also used for medicinal purposes.

Growth Habit of the Noni Tree

The noni grows on a tree, which makes it a perennial species. The tree has soft wood, grows rapidly, and can reach up to 30 feet tall. This makes it a good pioneer species that can be used to restore degraded land. The tree has a deep taproot and many lateral roots that can sprout new noni plants. The large, green, and glossy leaves have an opposite growth pattern. The tree also handles heavy pruning well.

The small white flowers grow to around a half an inch across. They have five petals and are self-pollinating. A mature tree can flower and fruit all year long. The flowers are borne on inflorescences that grow on the stems of tree.

The noni fruit is a multiple fruit meaning that multiple pollinated flowers will mature into one fruit. The fruit starts out green and eventually turns a yellowish white. The ripe fruit is translucent, a grey-white color, and firm yet soft. The rings that cover the fruit are scars from where the flowers grew. Fruit size ranges widely, but a large fruit can measure around 7 inches long.

One fruit can contain over 100 brown triangular-oval shaped seeds. The seeds have an air pocket inside of them which allows them to float. In ideal conditions the noni tree will fruit all year long, however, fruit production is at its peak during the warmer months of the year. I must admit that I have not yet gained the courage to taste this fruit, but it is said to have a bitter and cheese like flavor. In some cultures it is used as a staple food, but in others the fruit is considered a famine food that is only eaten when other crops aren’t available.

Propagation of Noni fruit

Noni trees can be propagated by seed from fully ripened fruit. It is said that germination of the seeds takes a couple of weeks. It is recommend to soak the seeds in water and/or knick the seed coat before planting. I have had seeds germinate quickly only by soaking them in water and planting them into pots. Seeds can be stored for some time if they are properly cleaned and dried. Noni trees can also be propagated by stem cuttings, air layering, or by digging up any plants that have sprouted from a mature trees root system. In ideal conditions seed grown trees will produce in their second year while trees grown from vegetative propagation will produce earlier.

Cultivation

  • Elevation – Up to 1500 m
  • Rainfall – 700-4200 mm/year; 1500-3000 mm/year optimal
  • Soil Types – wide range but prefers well-drained sandy soil with pH 4.3-7 (5-6.5 is best)
  • Temperature Range – 12-36°C; 24-30°C optimal
  • Day Length Sensitivity – grows under short days (<12 hours) in the tropics
  • Light – prefers full sun, but can grow in semi-shade

Noni can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds geriminate in 3 to 9 weeks. Nicking the seed coat or soaking them in hot water (40°C) can improve germination. Sow seeds in nursery beds. If using cuttings, select woody stem material with actively growing tips. When transplanting seedlings or rooted cuttings to their final location, aim for a spcing of 4 X 4 m. Water as needed until established, after which the trees can withstand long dry periods. Noni is also tolerant of saline and infertile soil. It is considered invasive in some areas.

Noni Fruit Farming: A Complete Cultivation Guide in kenya

Harvesting and Seed Production

Flowering and fruiting start the third year after planting and occur throughout the year. At ambient temperature, fruits ripen within about a week after harvesting. They should be used soon after harvesting to avoid spoilage.

Health Benefits of Noni Fruit

1. Immune System Booster

Noni juice activates macrophages and strengthens the immune system, boosting lymphocyte production. It also contains antibacterial agents effective against infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.

2. Antidepressant/Sedative

Noni stimulates serotonin and melatonin, two key hormones. Serotonin regulates mood, emotions, and sleep, while melatonin governs the circadian rhythm, promoting restful sleep and enhancing overall mood.

3. Skincare and Haircare

Noni’s properties benefit skin and scalp issues like eczema and ringworm. When applied to the scalp, it enhances hair luster and maintains youthful skin. Rubbing its juice on affected areas, leaving it for 15 minutes, and rinsing off is a simple treatment. Consuming noni juice may also strengthen nails.

4. Anti-Tumor/Anti-Cancer

Noni promotes nitric oxide production, which helps reduce tumor growth and combats cancerous cell replication. It contains noni-ppt, an immunomodulatory polysaccharide, and is rich in phytochemicals, which build up preventive defenses against cancer and can slow or reverse its progression.

5. Hypertension Management

Rich in phytonutrients, selenium, and vitamin C, noni combats free radical damage in blood vessels. Its scopoletin compound may lower blood pressure, while its alkaline nature prevents excessive acidity. Additionally, proxeronine helps the body produce xeronine, reducing stress and blood pressure.

6. Cholesterol Reduction

Noni prevents the absorption of LDL cholesterol, reducing arterial plaque buildup and promoting cardiovascular health.

7. Memory Health and Brain Booster

Noni’s phytosterols help block cholesterol absorption, preventing arterial plaque in the brain’s blood vessels. This ensures proper oxygenation, supporting memory and brain health.

8. Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Constipation Relief

High in soluble fiber, noni eases intestinal strain and softens stool. It also provides essential vitamins and minerals to maintain intestinal health.

9. Antibacterial, Antifungal, and Antiviral Properties

Noni contains anthraquinones, scopoletin, and terpenes, which work together to combat infections. Its effects are comparable to some prescription drugs, making it a natural remedy for various diseases.

Pests and Diseases

Noni trees are susceptible to root knot nematodes.

Cooking and Nutrition

Fruits are eaten raw, cooked, or juiced even though the odor is like putrid cheese. Young leaves contain 4-6% protein and are cooked as vegetables or added to curries. The seeds can be eaten roasted. Most plant parts are claimed to have health-promoting benefits in a variety of preparations.

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