Chayote is the squash-like fruit obtained from the tropical plant Sechium edule, also known as mirliton. Similar in shape to a large pear, usually furrowed and containing a single large seed, it has crisp, mild flesh. Chayote fruit are used in a variety of savoury and dessert dishes throughout Latin America and in Creole cooking. They are low in calories and sodium and a good source of trace elements, while the tubers, shoots and leaves are also edible. A single plant can produce dozens of fruits, making it a generous garden crop.