Sugar-Apple

(Annona squamosa)

Sugar-Apple (Annona squamosa)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Annona squamosa, commonly known as Sugar-apple or Sweetsop, is a semi-deciduous small tree or shrub native to the tropical Americas and West Indies. It thrives in altitudes from sea level to 2,000 meters (6,600 ft), typically in areas with a tropical or subtropical climate. This species is often found in disturbed areas, indicating its preference for open, sunny environments. Annona squamosa reaches a height of 3 meters (9.8 ft) to 8 meters (26 ft) tall, with a rounded or spreading canopy. The leaves are thin, oblong, and pale green. The flowers are inconspicuous, with three outer fleshy, greenish petals. The fruit is compound, with a knobby surface, and varies in shape, usually slightly heart-shaped or spherical. The pulp is creamy-white, sweet, and aromatic, segmented into multiple kernels. Flowering occurs in spring to early summer, with the fruit maturing shortly after.

The Sugar-apple is valued for its delicious fruit, which is eaten fresh or used in desserts and beverages. It is a prolific bearer, with a five-year-old tree capable of producing up to 50 fruits. The tree is often grown in tropical home gardens and orchards. It is also used in traditional medicine and has various health benefits due to its vitamin and mineral content. In cultivation, it prefers full sun and well-drained soils, tolerating a range of soil types. While it is moderately drought-tolerant, it performs best with regular watering and does not tolerate frost. It can be propagated by seeds, which germinate easily, but improved cultivars are often grafted. Potential problems include pests like the Annona seed borer and diseases such as root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
  • Height: 10-15 feet
  • Width: 10-15 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Salt Tolerant

Natural Habitat

Native to tropical Americas and West Indies, often found in disturbed areas, home gardens, and farmlands

Other Names

Common Names: Sweetsop, Bullock’s Heart, Custard Apple, Sweetsop, Pond Apple, Sweet Sop, Buah Nona, Seri Kaya, Anona, Nona

Scientific Names: , Annona squamosa, Xylopia glabra, Annona cinerea, Annona asiatica, Xylopia frutescens, Annona forskahlii, Annona distincta, Annona forsskalii, Guanabanus squamosus

GBIF Accepted Name: Annona squamosa L.