Sugar Apple
Annona squamosa
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Pl. CF37 — Annona squamosa
Annona squamosaAnnona squamosaAnnona squamosaAnnona squamosaAnnona squamosaAnnona squamosaAnnona squamosaAnnona squamosaAnnona squamosaAnnona squamosaAnnona squamosaAnnona squamosaAnnona squamosaAnnona squamosa
IOverview
Overview
Sugar Apple, scientifically known as Annona squamosa, is a deciduous tree native to Central America and the southern regions of Mexico. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types including light (sandy) and medium textures. Hardy in zones 10-12, it grows up to 6 meters tall. Known for its edible fruits, which are sweet and often used in desserts, the Sugar Apple is also valued for its ornamental qualities due to its attractive foliage and flowers. One distinctive feature of this plant is the papery, scaled appearance of its fruit when ripe, setting it apart from other Annona species.
Quick answers
What is Sugar Apple?
Sugar Apple, scientifically known as Annona squamosa, is a deciduous tree native to Central America and the southern regions of Mexico. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types including light (sandy) and medium textures.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Sugar Apple thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil that is light or sandy to medium in texture. It can tolerate dry conditions but benefits from moist soil during fruiting. Hardy in zones 10-12, this plant grows up to 6 meters tall. Propagate via seeds or air-layering. Fruits are edible and the plant is native to Central America and parts of Mexico.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
6.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Sugar Apple for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, sunny spot and basic care for your Sugar Apple.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Sugar Apple plant or seeds, potting soil, a container, and water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the last frost has passed.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil and ensure your container is at least 15 cm deep with good drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant a young plant into its container, making sure the root ball is level with the soil surface.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Place in partial shade for a few days.
- 6
Ongoing care
Place your Sugar Apple in full sun, water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and fertilize lightly every 2-3 months.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune to shape the tree and remove dead branches. Harvest fruits when they are fully ripe and give way to gentle pressure.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight, and neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:fruits
Edible uses: The Sugar Apple's fruit is the main edible part, often eaten raw or used in desserts and jams. The flesh has a sweet, custard-like texture and is enjoyed fresh for its flavor.
Other uses:Fire starterPest controlWeaving material
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
14 native · 16 introduced
Distribution
14 native · 16 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 14 native· 16 introduced
Asia3 regions
introduced (3)ChinaIndiaLaos
Americas9 regions
native (7)BelizeColombiaCosta RicaEl SalvadorGuatemalaHondurasNicaragua
introduced (2)HaitiJamaica
Africa3 regions
introduced (3)GambiaGuineaGuinea-Bissau
Broader regions
native:Mexico Gulf, Mexico Central, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Southeast, Panamá, Mexico Southwest, Mexico Northwest
introduced:Brazil Southeast, Central African Repu, Cayman Is., Brazil Northeast, Gulf of Guinea Is., Hainan, Florida
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · cf373495-0012-4594-a30f-b31cc6cbd048
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