Description: Annona squamosa, commonly known as Sugar Apple, Custard Apple, or Sweetsop, is a tropical fruit tree celebrated for its unique, conical fruits with a sweet, creamy pulp. Native to the tropical Americas and widely cultivated in India and Southeast Asia, this tree is prized for its high-yielding nature, delicious fruits, and ornamental appeal. With its adaptability to warm climates and low-maintenance requirements, it is an excellent addition to home gardens and small orchards.
Key Features: • Tree Characteristics: • Small, semi-deciduous tree or shrub, typically reaching 3–6 meters in height. • Features slender branches and glossy, oblong leaves, providing an elegant appearance. • Bears small, pale yellow-green flowers that are fragrant and attract pollinators. • Fruit Features: • Produces round or heart-shaped fruits with a segmented, knobby surface. • The skin is green or yellowish when ripe, and the creamy white pulp inside is exceptionally sweet and aromatic. • Fruits are typically 6–10 cm in diameter and contain black, glossy seeds. • Hardiness: • Thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, tolerating temperatures between 15–40°C. • Highly drought-resistant once established but sensitive to frost.
Cultivation Instructions: • Climate Requirements: • Grows best in warm, humid climates with full sun exposure. • Performs well in areas with dry winters and wet summers. • Soil Preference: • Prefers well-drained sandy or loamy soils with a pH range of 6.0–7.5. • Tolerates poor soils but benefits from organic matter for better yields. • Planting Instructions: • Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting to improve germination. • Sow seeds 2–3 cm deep in nutrient-rich soil, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. • Germination typically takes 2–4 weeks. • Watering: • Requires regular watering during the growing season. • Once mature, the tree is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering during dry periods. • Pruning: • Prune in late winter or early spring to shape the tree, remove dead wood, and promote better air circulation.
Uses and Benefits: • Culinary: • The sweet, creamy pulp is consumed fresh or used in desserts, smoothies, and ice creams. • Fruits are rich in natural sugars, making them a delightful treat. • Gardening: • Ideal for home gardens or small orchards, providing both fruit and ornamental value. • Nutritional Value: • Rich in vitamins C and B6, dietary fiber, and potassium, supporting overall health. • Medicinal Uses: • Traditionally used in folk medicine for its digestive and antioxidant properties.
Historical Note: Annona squamosa has been cultivated for centuries, valued for its delicious fruits and adaptability. In Indian culture, it is a beloved fruit, often associated with traditional desserts and celebrations.
Shipping Information: Deodar Seeds ensures that all seeds are carefully selected and packaged to maintain their freshness and viability. Seeds are shipped within India and internationally, with delivery typically within 1–2 weeks.