Annona muricata
TAXONOMY
FamilyAnnonaceae
GenusAnnona
Zone10
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Annona muricata, commonly known as soursop, graviola, or guanabana, is a tropical fruit-bearing tree native to the Caribbean and Central America. It thrives in wet tropical climates and can grow up to 8 meters tall. The tree produces large, heart-shaped fruits with a spiky green exterior and soft, white, fibrous flesh inside. The fruit is known for its unique flavor, which is a combination of strawberry and pineapple with a hint of sour citrus.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Graviola
Guanabana
Guanabanus Muricatus
Soursop
Annona bonplandiana
Annona cearaensis
Annona macrocarpa
Annona muricata f. mirabilis
Annona muricata var. borinquensis
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterVery Wet
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity80%
GDD2,700
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Annona muricata requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It thrives in warm, humid conditions and prefers consistently moist soil. The plant should be watered regularly to maintain soil moisture, especially during dry periods. It is best suited for outdoor growth in tropical climates where temperatures are moderate to warm.Harvest
Annona muricata, commonly known as soursop, should be harvested when the fruit is fully grown and slightly soft to the touch, typically 4 to 5 days after it starts to soften. The fruit should be cut from the tree using a sharp knife or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. It is important to handle the fruit gently to prevent bruising. Harvesting is usually done in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day, which can affect the fruit's quality. The fruit should be stored in a cool, dry place and consumed or processed within a few days of harvesting.Soil
The soursop tree prefers 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. A slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal for this plant.Fertilizer
Annona muricata benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, to support its growth and fruit production. Fertilize the plant every 2-3 months during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to nutrient imbalances.Repotting
If growing Annona muricata in a container, repotting should be done every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its current pot. Choose a larger pot with good drainage and fresh, well-draining soil. Repotting is best done in the early spring before the growing season begins.Propagation
Propagation of Annona muricata can be done through seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a well-draining seed-starting mix and kept moist until germination. Cuttings can be taken from healthy, mature plants and rooted in a moist, well-draining medium. Propagation is best done in the spring or early summer.Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and health of the soursop tree. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to remove dead or diseased branches and to encourage new growth. Regular pruning helps improve air circulation and light penetration within the canopy.Toxicity
Annona muricata contains compounds that can be toxic if ingested in large quantities. The seeds and bark are particularly toxic and should be handled with care. The plant is toxic to pets and humans if consumed in large amounts, so it is important to keep it out of reach of children and animals.Additional
Annona muricata is valued not only for its delicious fruit but also for its potential medicinal properties. The leaves, fruit, and seeds have been used in traditional medicine for their purported anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. However, more research is needed to fully understand these benefits.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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