Annona squamosa
TAXONOMY
FamilyAnnonaceae
GenusAnnona
Zone10
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Annona squamosa, commonly known as sugar apple or sweetsop, is a small, tropical tree in the family Annonaceae. It is native to the tropical Americas and West Indies. The tree produces a fruit that is popular for its sweet, creamy flesh. The plant does not have a dormancy period and can produce fruit multiple times a year in optimal conditions.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Cachiman Cannelle
Custard Apple
Custard-Apple
Guanabanus Squamosus
Pomme Canelle
Pomme Cannelle
Sugar Apple
Sweet Sop
Annona asiatica
Annona cinerea
Annona distincta
Annona forskahlii
Annona forsskalii
Annona glabra
Annona squamosa
Annona squamosa f. parvifolia
Xylopia glabra
Xylopicron glabrum
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterWet
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity70%
GDD2,700
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Annona squamosa requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It thrives in warm temperatures and high humidity. Regular watering is essential to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. The plant can be grown both indoors and outdoors, provided it receives adequate light and warmth.Harvest
Annona squamosa, commonly known as sugar apple or sweetsop, is typically harvested when the fruit is mature but still firm. This usually occurs about 4 to 5 months after flowering. The fruit should be picked when it starts to change color from green to a slightly yellowish hue and the segments begin to separate slightly. Harvesting is done by hand, using a gentle twisting motion to avoid damaging the fruit or the tree. It is important to handle the fruit carefully as it is prone to bruising. Post-harvest, the fruit should be stored in a cool, dry place and consumed within a few days for optimal freshness.Soil
The sugar apple prefers well-draining loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot. Good drainage is crucial for the health of the plant.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 its nutrient needs and promote healthy growth and fruit production.Repotting
Repot Annona squamosa 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. Repotting is best done in the spring.Propagation
Propagate the sugar apple through seeds or grafting. Seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept warm and moist. Grafting is typically done to ensure the quality and consistency of the fruit.Pruning
Prune the plant to maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased branches. Pruning should be done after the fruiting season to encourage new growth and improve air circulation within the canopy.Toxicity
Annona squamosa is not toxic to pets or humans. However, the seeds contain small amounts of toxic compounds and should not be ingested.Additional
To encourage fruit production, hand pollination may be necessary, especially if the plant is grown indoors or in areas with limited pollinator activity. Regularly check for pests such as aphids and scale insects, and treat them promptly to prevent infestations.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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