Annona cherimola
TAXONOMY
FamilyAnnonaceae
GenusAnnona
Zone10
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Annona cherimola, commonly known as cherimoya or custard apple, is a species of the Annonaceae family. Native to the Andean valleys of Ecuador, Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia, it is a tropical or subtropical plant that can grow as a shrub or tree. The plant produces large, heart-shaped fruits with a creamy texture and sweet flavor, often described as a blend of banana, pineapple, and strawberry.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Cherimoya
Chirimoya
Custard-Apple
Annona pubescens
Annona tripetala
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterWet
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity70%
GDD2,700
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Cherimoya plants thrive in warm, tropical climates with plenty of sunlight. They prefer moderate temperatures and high humidity. Regular watering is essential to keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid waterlogging. Ensure the plant receives bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth.Harvest
Cherimoya (Annona cherimola) fruits are typically ready for harvest when they change from a dark green to a lighter green or slightly yellowish hue and the skin gives slightly under gentle pressure. Harvesting is usually done by hand, using pruning shears to cut the fruit from the tree, leaving a short stem attached. It is important to handle the fruits carefully to avoid bruising. The fruits should be harvested before they are fully ripe and allowed to ripen off the tree at room temperature. Ideal harvesting time is generally late fall to early winter, depending on the local climate.Soil
Cherimoya plants prefer well-draining loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to support healthy growth and fruit production.Repotting
Repot cherimoya plants every 2-3 years or when they outgrow their current container. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, loosen the roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil.Propagation
Cherimoya can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. For seed propagation, plant seeds in a well-draining soil mix and keep them warm and moist until they germinate. For cuttings, take a healthy branch and plant it in a rooting medium, keeping it moist until roots develop.Pruning
Prune cherimoya plants to maintain their shape and encourage healthy growth. Remove dead or diseased branches and thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.Toxicity
Cherimoya is generally non-toxic to humans and pets. However, the seeds contain small amounts of toxic compounds and should not be ingested. Always remove seeds before consuming the fruit.Additional
Cherimoya plants can be sensitive to frost and cold temperatures. If you live in a cooler climate, consider growing the plant in a container that can be moved indoors during the winter months. Regularly check for pests such as aphids and scale insects, and treat infestations promptly.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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