The aim of this work was to determine the growth curve of the fruit mass and the longitudinal and transversal diameter, as well as the accumulation of solid and liquid albumens (coconut water) and its sensorial characterization in different stages. Fruitages of green dwarf coconut palm (Cocos nucifera L.) were evaluated fortnightly in 26 times during the period of their formation, from April 2004 to May 2005, in the city of Bebedouro, São Paulo state. Models of logistics regression and logistics with quadratic exponential were applied to the data with the graphic collaboration of the growth curves, obtaining a high level of agreements for the evaluated parameter. The longitudinal external diameter reached 20,12 centimeters in its 375 days after the opening of the inflorescence (d.a.o.i.) and to the transversal external diameter 14,57 centimeters in its 345 (d.a.o.i.). The fruitages reached bigger mass in the period between 255 and 315 days after the opening of inflorescence, and there was no significant statistic difference in this period. The solid albumen had an initial formation in its 225 days after the opening of inflorescence, reaching the mass of 214.78 grams in its 375 days. The biggest liquid albumen volume was verified in 8 ½ month-old fruit, combining with the adequate taste, by sensorial evaluation of the fruitage water for its consume "in nature", pointing it as important indicatives for the ideal point of the fruitage harvest in this period in the city of Bebedouro, São Paulo state.
physical characteristics; fruitage components; growth; green coconut water; ideal point for harvest
