Finding tasty and interesting fruits that start with the letter D can be a challenge for many people.

Most shoppers know apples, bananas, and oranges well, but when it comes to D-fruits, they often draw a blank at the produce section.

Fortunately, there’s a world of delicious D-fruits waiting to be explored. These fruits offer unique flavors and health benefits that can add variety to anyone’s diet.

This blog will showcase several interesting fruits beginning with D.

Readers will learn about the sweet dragon fruit with its striking appearance, the tiny yet flavorful damson plum, and the creamy durian known for its strong smell but beloved taste.

They’ll also learn dates, which serve as natural sweeteners, and other lesser-known D-fruits worth trying.

Delicious Fruits That Start with D

1. Date

Dates are sweet, dark brown fruits from the date palm tree, commonly grown in desert climates. They have a chewy texture and are often eaten dried, used in sweets, or incorporated into savory dishes.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 277cal
• Fat: 0.2g
• Sodium: 1mg
• Carbohydrates: 75g
• Fiber: 8g
• Sugar: 63g
• Protein: 2.5g

Health Benefits:
Rich in fiber and natural sugars, making them an excellent energy source. Also packed with potassium for heart health.

Fun Fact:
Dates have been a staple food in the Middle East for thousands of years, often referred to as the “fruit of life.”

2. Dragon Fruit (Pitaya)

Dragon fruit, or pitaya, is a tropical fruit known for its vibrant pink or yellow skin and white or red flesh speckled with small black seeds. It has a mildly sweet flavor and a crunchy texture.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 50cal
• Fat: 0.1g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 8g
• Protein: 1g

Health Benefits:
High in vitamin C and antioxidants, which boost the immune system and improve skin health.

Fun Fact:
Dragon fruit flowers bloom only at night and are pollinated by bats!

3. Damson Plum

Damson plums are small, oval-shaped fruits with dark purple skin and tart, juicy flesh. They are often used in jams, jellies, and sauces, or enjoyed fresh for their sharp flavor.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 46cal
• Fat: 0.2g
• Sodium: 1mg
• Carbohydrates: 11.5g
• Fiber: 1.6g
• Sugar: 9.9g
• Protein: 0.6g

Health Benefits:
Rich in vitamin C and fiber, which aid digestion and boost immunity.

Fun Fact:
Damson plums are known for their unique tartness and are commonly used in European preserves.

4. Desert Lime

Desert lime is a small, round citrus fruit native to the Australian Outback. It has a tart, tangy flavor and is often used in cooking and traditional medicine.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 40cal
• Fat: 0.1g
• Sodium: 1mg
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 0.8g

Health Benefits:
High in vitamin C, supporting immunity and collagen production, and rich in antioxidants that help fight free radicals.

Fun Fact:
Desert limes are part of Australia’s bush food culture and are valued for their unique tart flavor and medicinal properties.

5. Dekopon Orange

Dekopon oranges are a variety of seedless, easy-to-peel citrus known for their sweetness and lack of seeds. They have a bright orange color and a rich, juicy flavor, making them a popular snack.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 47cal
• Fat: 0.1g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Carbohydrates: 11.8g
• Fiber: 2.4g
• Sugar: 9g
• Protein: 0.9g

Health Benefits:
Rich in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and helps with skin health.

Fun Fact:
Dekopon oranges are often called “Shiranui” in Japan and are known for their perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.

6. Davidson’s Plum

Davidson’s plum is a small, dark purple fruit native to Australia, often used for its tart flavor in sauces, jams, and beverages. The fruit has a distinct sour taste and is prized for its unique flavor profile.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 65cal
• Fat: 0.2g
• Sodium: 3mg
• Carbohydrates: 17.3g
• Fiber: 3.1g
• Sugar: 11g
• Protein: 1g

Health Benefits:
Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting the immune system and promoting skin health.

Fun Fact:
Davidson’s plum is a native Australian superfruit known for its high levels of anthocyanins and antioxidants.

7. Darwin’s Barberry Fruit

Darwin’s barberry is a small, tart fruit found in the coastal areas of Australia. Known for its deep red color, it’s often used in traditional remedies and food, especially for its sour taste.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 40cal
• Fat: 0.2g
• Sodium: 1mg
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2.1g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 0.6g

Health Benefits:
High in vitamin C and antioxidants, which help support immunity and reduce inflammation.

Fun Fact:
The plant is named after Charles Darwin, who first encountered it during his exploration of South America.

8. Double Coconut

Double coconut is a rare tropical fruit native to the Seychelles, known for its unique two-lobed appearance. It is large and heavy, and its flesh is soft, sweet, and similar to coconut in flavor.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 354cal
• Fat: 33g
• Sodium: 16mg
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 9g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 3g

Health Benefits:
High in healthy fats, providing energy and supporting brain health, and contains significant fiber for digestion.

Fun Fact:
The double coconut is the largest seed in the plant kingdom and can weigh up to 30 kilograms.

9. Dabai Fruit

Dabai is a small, dark purple fruit native to Borneo. It has a rich, earthy flavor with a creamy texture and is typically used in savory dishes like salads and stews.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 200cal
• Fat: 15g
• Sodium: 2mg
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 7g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 1g

Health Benefits:
Rich in essential fatty acids and fiber, supporting heart health and digestion.

Fun Fact:
Dabai is often referred to as the “black olive of Borneo” due to its similar appearance and use in cooking.

10. Duku Fruit

Duku is a tropical fruit that grows on trees in Southeast Asia. It has a sweet, tangy flavor and is typically eaten fresh, with a translucent, juicy flesh inside its thick, yellow rind.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 74cal
• Fat: 0.3g
• Sodium: 2mg
• Carbohydrates: 19.5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 15g
• Protein: 0.7g

Health Benefits:
Contains vitamins A and C, supporting immunity and promoting skin health.

Fun Fact:
Duku is sometimes called “Langsat” when it has a more translucent flesh and is often compared to a “local delicacy.”

11. Desert Quandong

Desert Quandong is a small, bright red fruit native to the Australian Outback. It has a tart, sour taste and is often used in jams, sauces, or as a traditional remedy.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 25cal
• Fat: 0.1g
• Sodium: 2mg
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 1g

Health Benefits:
Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting immune health and reducing inflammation.

Fun Fact:
Desert Quandong has been used for thousands of years by indigenous Australians in both food and medicinal applications.

12. Dead Man’s Fingers Fruit

Dead Man’s Fingers is a highly unusual fruit found in the forests of the Caribbean and South America. It is named for its resemblance to human fingers, and the fruit is used in some traditional remedies.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 40cal
• Fat: 0.3g
• Sodium: 2mg
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 1.5g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 0.4g

Health Benefits:
Used traditionally to treat ailments like coughs and respiratory issues, though its full health benefits need more study.

Fun Fact:
Despite its eerie name and appearance, Dead Man’s Fingers is actually a type of fungus and not a fruit in the traditional sense.

13. Dewberry

Dewberries are small, sweet berries similar to blackberries. They grow on trailing vines and are often harvested in the wild for use in jams and desserts.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 43cal
• Fat: 0.4g
• Sodium: 1mg
• Carbohydrates: 10.1g
• Fiber: 4.1g
• Sugar: 7.4g
• Protein: 0.8g

Health Benefits:
High in fiber and antioxidants, which promote heart health and improve digestion.

Fun Fact:
Dewberries are often confused with blackberries, though dewberries have a more pronounced sweetness and a distinct, less tart flavor.

14. Dodder Laurel Fruit

Dodder laurel is a parasitic plant that attaches to trees, and its fruits are small, yellow berries. The fruit is typically used in traditional Chinese medicine for its medicinal properties rather than for culinary use.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 55cal
• Fat: 0.2g
• Sodium: 3mg
• Carbohydrates: 12.3g
• Fiber: 2.5g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 0.5g

Health Benefits:
Used in traditional medicine to strengthen kidneys, improve vitality, and support circulation.

Fun Fact:
Dodder laurel is considered a parasitic plant because it doesn’t have its own roots, relying on its host tree for nutrients.

15. Dwarf Banana

Dwarf bananas are a variety of banana that stays smaller than the regular ones but has a rich, sweet flavor. They are perfect for snacking or adding to fruit salads.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 89cal
• Fat: 0.3g
• Sodium: 1mg
• Carbohydrates: 22.8g
• Fiber: 2.6g
• Sugar: 12g
• Protein: 1.1g

Health Benefits:
High in potassium, providing heart and muscle health benefits, and a good source of dietary fiber.

Fun Fact:
Despite their small size, dwarf bananas are packed with flavor and often preferred for their sweetness in many countries.

16. Downy Rose Myrtle Berry

Downy Rose Myrtle berries are small, round fruits with a sweet, spicy aroma, native to Australia. They are often used in sauces, jams, and marinades, providing a unique, fragrant flavor.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 62cal
• Fat: 0.3g
• Sodium: 3mg
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 8g
• Protein: 0.8g

Health Benefits:
Contains antioxidants and vitamin C, which support immune function and skin health.

Fun Fact:
Downy Rose Myrtle berries have a unique flavor that combines hints of rose, spice, and herbs, making them popular in Australian bush foods.

17. Dwarf Sugar Palm Fruit

Dwarf sugar palm fruit comes from a smaller variety of the sugar palm tree, known for its sweet, chewy, and translucent flesh. It’s often used in traditional sweets and drinks in Southeast Asia.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 104cal
• Fat: 0.2g
• Sodium: 2mg
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 21g
• Protein: 0.5g

Health Benefits:
Provides a good source of energy from natural sugars and contains small amounts of fiber to aid digestion.

Fun Fact:
The fruit is also known for being used to produce palm sugar, an essential ingredient in many Southeast Asian cuisines.

18. Dabai (Canarium odontophyllum)

Dabai is a unique fruit native to Borneo. It has a dark purple to black skin with a rich, creamy texture and a sweet, earthy flavor, often used in savory dishes or eaten fresh.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 140cal
• Fat: 10g
• Sodium: 2mg
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 1.2g

Health Benefits:
High in healthy fats and fiber, promoting heart health and digestion.

Fun Fact:
Dabai is often referred to as the “black olive of Borneo” due to its resemblance to olives and its unique, creamy taste.

19. Dangleberry

Dangleberry is a small, round fruit that grows on a shrub. It has a sweet, tangy flavor and is typically used in jams and jellies. It is found in the wild and is part of the blueberry family.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 44cal
• Fat: 0.2g
• Sodium: 1mg
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2.8g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 0.7g

Health Benefits:
Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which improve immune function and help reduce inflammation.

Fun Fact:
Dangleberries are often confused with other types of wild berries due to their small size and vibrant color.

20. Dabai Plum

Dabai plum is a unique fruit native to Borneo, known for its sweet, creamy texture and dark purple skin. It is commonly used in savory dishes or eaten fresh in Southeast Asian cuisine.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 140cal
• Fat: 10g
• Sodium: 2mg
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 1.2g

Health Benefits:
Rich in healthy fats and fiber, promoting heart health and digestive function.

Fun Fact:
Dabai plum is often compared to the black olive in flavor but has a smoother, creamier texture.

21. Davidsonia Jerseyana (A type of Davidson’s Plum)

Davidsonia jerseyana is a variety of Davidson’s plum, known for its intensely sour flavor and dark purple to black color. It’s primarily used in sauces, jams, and traditional remedies in Australia.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 60cal
• Fat: 0.1g
• Sodium: 2mg
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 10g
• Protein: 1g

Health Benefits:
High in vitamin C, antioxidants, and other bioactive compounds that help strengthen the immune system.

Fun Fact:
This fruit is known for its strong, tart flavor and is an essential ingredient in many traditional Australian sauces and chutneys.

22. Dwarf Papaya

Dwarf papayas are smaller than regular papayas but have the same sweet and tangy flavor. They grow on smaller trees and are often eaten fresh or used in smoothies and salads.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 43cal
• Fat: 0.3g
• Sodium: 1mg
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 1.7g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 0.5g

Health Benefits:
Rich in vitamin C and papain, an enzyme that aids digestion and helps reduce inflammation.

Fun Fact:
Despite their small size, dwarf papayas have a flavor that is as sweet and flavorful as their larger counterparts.

23. Dutch Mombin

Dutch mombin is a small, oval-shaped fruit that starts yellow and ripens to a deep purple. It has a tangy-sweet flavor and is often used in beverages, jams, and jellies in South America.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 67cal
• Fat: 0.3g
• Sodium: 1mg
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 12g
• Protein: 0.7g

Health Benefits:
High in vitamin C and antioxidants, which support immune function and skin health.

Fun Fact:
The fruit is often used to make “mombin juice,” a popular refreshing drink in Brazil and other parts of South America.

24. Dovyalis (Kei Apple)

Dovyalis, also known as Kei apple, is a small, round fruit with a tangy, sour taste. It is typically eaten fresh or used in jams and chutneys in southern Africa.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 58cal
• Fat: 0.3g
• Sodium: 2mg
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 0.9g

Health Benefits:
High in vitamin C, which boosts immunity and helps with collagen production.

Fun Fact:
Kei apple is a drought-resistant fruit that succeeds in arid climates and is an important food source in Africa.

25. Desert Fig

Desert fig is a small, round fruit native to desert regions. It has a sweet flavor with a slightly crunchy texture, commonly eaten fresh or used in fruit preserves.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 45cal
• Fat: 0.2g
• Sodium: 1mg
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 7g
• Protein: 0.5g

Health Benefits:
Rich in fiber, which supports digestion and promotes heart health.

Fun Fact:
Desert figs are known to grow in harsh, dry conditions, making them a strong and sustainable fruit in arid regions.

26. Dakota Black Popcorn Fruit

Dakota Black Popcorn Fruit is a rare fruit that resembles popcorn kernels in shape. It has a smoky, sweet flavor and is often used in savory dishes or for making unique popcorn-flavored snacks.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 80cal
• Fat: 1g
• Sodium: 2mg
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 12g
• Protein: 1.2g

Health Benefits:
Rich in fiber and antioxidants, supporting digestive health and overall wellness.

Fun Fact:
Dakota Black Popcorn Fruit is prized for its unique flavor that mimics the taste of popcorn, making it popular for culinary experimentation.

27. Dattock Fruit

Dattock fruit is a small, round fruit that grows on a climbing vine in Southeast Asia. Its flavor is tangy-sweet, similar to tamarind, and it is often used in traditional dishes and drinks.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 45cal
• Fat: 0.1g
• Sodium: 3mg
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 1g

Health Benefits:
Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting immune function and providing anti-inflammatory benefits.

Fun Fact:
Dattock fruit is often used in refreshing tropical drinks in Southeast Asia due to its unique flavor.

28. Darling Plum

Darling plum is a small, tart fruit native to southern Africa. It is commonly used to make jams, sauces, and chutneys due to its intense, sour flavor.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 50cal
• Fat: 0.2g
• Sodium: 3mg
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: 2.5g
• Sugar: 8g
• Protein: 0.6g

Health Benefits:
High in vitamin C and fiber, supporting digestion and boosting the immune system.

Fun Fact:
Darling plums are traditionally used by indigenous African communities for their tart flavor and medicinal uses.

29. Dioecious Persimmon

Dioecious persimmons are a type of persimmon with separate male and female trees. They are sweet when fully ripe and are commonly eaten fresh or used in desserts.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 81cal
• Fat: 0.2g
• Sodium: 1mg
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 12g
• Protein: 0.5g

Health Benefits:
Rich in dietary fiber and antioxidants, supporting digestion and heart health.

Fun Fact:
Dioecious persimmons require both male and female trees to produce fruit, making them an interesting botanical curiosity.

30. Dwarf Pawpaw

Dwarf pawpaw is a smaller variety of the pawpaw fruit, with a custard-like texture and sweet flavor. It’s native to North America and is often eaten fresh or used in baking.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 94cal
• Fat: 0.5g
• Sodium: 2mg
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 15g
• Protein: 1g

Health Benefits:
High in vitamin C and manganese, which promote immune function and bone health.

Fun Fact:
Dwarf pawpaws are smaller but still pack the same rich, tropical flavor as their larger relatives.

31. Drypetes Deplanchei Fruit

Drypetes deplanchei is a rare fruit found in Southeast Asia, typically growing in coastal areas. It has a soft, sweet pulp and is often used in traditional medicines and culinary dishes.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 55cal
• Fat: 0.3g
• Sodium: 3mg
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 8g
• Protein: 0.5g

Health Benefits:
Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting immunity and protecting against oxidative stress.

Fun Fact:
The fruit is often used in traditional remedies for digestive issues and skin ailments in Southeast Asia.

32. Dovyalis Hebecarpa (Ceylon Gooseberry)

Ceylon gooseberry is a small, tangy fruit that grows on a shrub native to Sri Lanka. It is used in sauces, jams, and beverages due to its tart flavor.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 48cal
• Fat: 0.2g
• Sodium: 3mg
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2.5g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 1g

Health Benefits:
High in vitamin C, boosting immunity and promoting skin health.

Fun Fact:
The Ceylon gooseberry is considered a “superfruit” due to its high levels of antioxidants.

33. Dulce Nance

Dulce Nance is a small, round fruit with a sweet, tangy flavor. It is native to Central and South America, often eaten fresh or used in smoothies, jams, and desserts.

Nutritional Value Per 100g:

• Calories: 60cal
• Fat: 0.3g
• Sodium: 1mg
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 10g
• Protein: 1g

Health Benefits:
Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which boost immunity and improve skin health.

Fun Fact:
Dulce Nance is prized for its sweet, syrupy pulp, often used in drinks and traditional desserts.

Creative Recipes by Fruit that Starts with D

1. Desert Fig Jam

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of desert figs (fresh or dried)
• 1 cup of sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

• Peel and chop the desert figs into small pieces.
• In a saucepan, add the chopped figs, sugar, lemon juice, and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
• Stir occasionally and let the mixture simmer for about 30 minutes, until it thickens.
• Add vanilla extract and cook for another 5 minutes.
• Pour into sterilized jars and let cool. Refrigerate after opening.

2. Desert Lime Sorbet

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup fresh desert lime juice
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon lime zest
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

• In a saucepan, combine water and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, creating a simple syrup.
• Remove from heat and stir in the fresh desert lime juice, lime zest, and a pinch of salt.
• Pour the mixture into a shallow pan and place in the freezer.
• Stir every 30 minutes for the first 2 hours to break up the ice crystals.
• Once the sorbet is fully frozen and fluffy, serve chilled.

3. Double Coconut Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup double coconut flesh (fresh or frozen)
• 1 banana
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Instructions:

• Add the double coconut flesh, banana, coconut milk, and pineapple juice to a blender.
• Blend until smooth.
• Taste and add honey if extra sweetness is desired. Blend again.
• Serve chilled with ice cubes for extra refreshment.

4. Desert Quandong Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 cup desert quandong pulp (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

• In a saucepan, combine the desert quandong pulp, sugar, apple cider vinegar, ginger, and cinnamon.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
• Allow the sauce to cool before serving. It pairs wonderfully with meats like chicken or pork or can be drizzled over roasted vegetables.

5. Dodder Laurel Fruit Infused Water

Ingredients:

• 5-6 fresh dodder laurel fruits (or dried)
• 1 liter of cold water
• A handful of fresh mint leaves
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Instructions:

• Place the dodder laurel fruits into a pitcher of cold water.
• Gently crush the fruits to release their flavor.
• Add the fresh mint leaves and stir in honey if desired.
• Refrigerate for 2-3 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
• Serve chilled with ice cubes for a refreshing, herbal drink.

The Bottom Line

D-fruits bring unique flavors and benefits to the table. These lesser-known fruits deserve a spot in shopping carts and kitchen counters across the world.

When someone bites into a sweet date or slices open a dragon fruit, they join a global community of food lovers who look beyond the common options.

The letter D might not house the most famous fruits, but it certainly holds some gems worth seeking out.

Next time at the market, keeping an eye out for these D-named treasures might lead to a new favorite.

For those who enjoyed learning about these fruits, our blogs on Fruits That Start with R and Fruits that Start with J continue this tasty alphabet tour through nature’s bounty.

What makes these D-fruits special is how they stand out with their own unique stories.