Sugar apple, Custard apple
annona squamosa
Also known as: ["Sweetsop","Sharifa","Ata"]
Overview
A small deciduous tree native to the tropical Americas, cultivated for its sweet, edible fruit.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Magnoliales |
| Family: | Annonaceae |
| Genus: | Annona |
| Botanical Name: | Annona squamosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions, or as a container plant in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, after fruiting or in late winter/early spring before new growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); partial shade during peak afternoon heat in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from scorching by providing shade during extreme heat; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing to every 2–3 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in cooler months.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); prefers stable conditions; sensitive to frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain warmth during flowering/fruiting.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; avoid fertilizing stressed plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss) or cactus/succulent soil.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning, heading back, and removal of crossing or weak branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to shape the plant, encourage fruiting, and remove dead/diseased wood; focus on maintaining airflow and light penetration.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape for light/airflow.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to reduce evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, stunted growth, yellowing leaves, or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may wilt or turn brown; risk of frost damage or death in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cooler conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced fruit set, or leaf drop due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to acetogenins found in Annona squamosa, especially in the seeds. While the pulp is usually safe, large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild toxicity if they consume large quantities of Annona squamosa, particularly the seeds, due to the presence of acetogenins. The pulp is generally safe but excessive intake can lead to gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicAnnona squamosa, commonly known as sugar apple or custard apple, contains acetogenins, particularly in its seeds, which can be toxic if ingested in large amounts. The pulp is generally safe for consumption, but excessive intake may cause mild gastrointestinal distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Annona squamosa?
A: Water deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Annona squamosa require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Q: When does Annona squamosa bear fruit?
A: It typically bears fruit 2-3 years after planting, with fruiting occurring in late summer.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Annonaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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