Which edible fruits belong to the soapberry family?

The soapberry family (Sapindaceae) is well known for a variety of economically important edible fruits. While some members of the family, such as the genus Sapindus, are primarily known for their saponin content and use as soap, many others are cultivated specifically for their fruit.123

Notable edible fruits in the Sapindaceae family include:

• Lychee (Litchi chinensis)
• Longan (Dimocarpus longan)
• Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum)
• Ackee (Blighia sapida): The national fruit of Jamaica. It is important to note that ackee is poisonous if not prepared correctly; only the fleshy aril surrounding the seed is edible, and it must be harvested only after the fruit has opened naturally.3
• Spanish lime or mamoncillo (Melicoccus bijugatus)13
• Senegal cherry (Lepisanthes senegalensis)3

Additionally, the seeds of guarana (Paullinia cupana) are ground to produce a popular, caffeine-rich beverage ingredient.13