Annona senegalensis
TAXONOMY
FamilyAnnonaceae
GenusAnnona
Zone10
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Annona senegalensis, commonly known as African custard-apple, wild soursop, or wild custard apple, is a shrub or small tree native to tropical regions of Africa. It thrives in seasonally dry tropical climates and is known for its edible fruits. The plant can grow up to 6 meters in height and has a dormancy period during the dry season.
ALSO KNOWN AS
African Custard Apple
Annona arenaria
Annona chrysophylla
Annona chrysophylla var. porpetac
Annona porpetac
Annona senegalensis subsp. senegalensis
Annona senegalensis var. deltoides
Annona senegalensis var. latifolia
Annona senegalensis var. porpetac
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
GDD2,250
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Annona senegalensis requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It prefers moderate temperatures and moderate humidity levels. Water the plant when the soil is almost completely dry, and ensure it has good air circulation. The plant can tolerate some drought but will perform best with regular watering during the growing season.Harvest
Annona senegalensis, commonly known as African custard-apple, is typically harvested when the fruits are fully ripe, which is indicated by a change in color to yellow or orange and a slight softening of the fruit. Harvesting is usually done by hand, carefully picking the fruits to avoid damage. It is important to harvest the fruits promptly to prevent over-ripening and potential loss to wildlife. The fruits should be handled gently and stored in a cool, dry place to extend their shelf life. Additionally, the seeds can be collected and dried for future planting.Soil
The plant prefers well-draining loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can harm the roots. A mix of loam and sand can be ideal for this plant.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 during the growing season. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks to provide essential nutrients for healthy growth.Repotting
Repot Annona senegalensis every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current container. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the previous one and ensure it has good drainage. Repot during the early growing season for best results.Propagation
Propagate Annona senegalensis through seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until germination. Cuttings can be taken during the growing season and should be placed in a rooting hormone before planting in a suitable soil mix.Pruning
Prune the plant during the dormant season to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the plant. Regular pruning helps maintain the plant's health and encourages new growth.Toxicity
Annona senegalensis is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, it is always advisable to keep plants out of reach of pets and children to prevent any accidental ingestion.Additional
Annona senegalensis is valued for its edible fruits, which are often consumed fresh or used in traditional medicine. The plant is also used for its wood and as a source of natural dyes. It can be a valuable addition to a tropical garden, providing both aesthetic and practical benefits.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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