Annona reticulata
TAXONOMY
FamilyAnnonaceae
GenusAnnona
Zone10
LEARN MORE
Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Annona reticulata, commonly known as the custard apple or bullock's heart, is a tropical fruit tree in the family Annonaceae. It is native to the Caribbean and Central America. The tree produces large, heart-shaped fruits with a creamy, custard-like flesh. It thrives in warm, humid climates and is often grown in tropical and subtropical regions.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Custard Apple
Annona excelsa
Annona humboldtiana
Annona humboldtii
Annona laevis
Annona longifolia
Annona lutescens
Annona primigenia
Annona reticulata var. primigenia
Annona riparia
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterWet
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity70%
GDD2,700
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Annona reticulata requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It prefers warm temperatures and high humidity. Regular watering is essential to keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid waterlogging. The plant can be grown outdoors in tropical and subtropical climates.Harvest
Annona reticulata, commonly known as custard apple, is typically harvested when the fruit changes color from green to a yellowish or reddish hue and the skin becomes slightly soft to the touch. Harvesting is usually done by hand, using a gentle twisting motion to avoid damaging the fruit or the tree. It is important to handle the fruit carefully to prevent bruising. The ideal time to harvest is during the dry season to minimize the risk of fungal infections. Post-harvest, the fruits should be stored in a cool, dry place and consumed within a few days for optimal freshness.Soil
The custard apple prefers well-draining loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant regularly during the growing season to support its nutrient needs.Repotting
Repot the plant when it outgrows its current container, typically every 2-3 years. Choose a slightly larger pot and ensure good drainage. Handle the roots carefully to avoid damage.Propagation
Annona reticulata can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a warm, humid environment, while cuttings can be taken from mature plants and rooted in a suitable growing medium.Pruning
Prune the plant to maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased branches. Pruning should be done during the dormant season or after fruiting.Toxicity
Annona reticulata is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, as with all plants, it is advisable to keep it out of reach of small children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.Additional
The custard apple tree can be susceptible to pests such as aphids and scale insects. Regular monitoring and appropriate pest control measures can help keep the plant healthy.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
Make Every Plant Smart
Plant Monitor
STAYS IN YOUR PLANT
Accurately measures the core metrics of your plant – soil moisture, light, temperature and humidity - as well as compound metrics such as Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) and Growing Degree Days (GDD).
Shop Now
