Cherimoya (Annona cherimola)
Exotic, Custard-Like Tropical Fruit
Common Names: Cherimoya, Custard Apple
Family: Annonaceae
Origin: South America (Andes region of Ecuador and Peru)
Cherimoya (Annona cherimola) is a tropical fruit tree known for its luscious, creamy fruit with a flavor often described as a blend of banana, pineapple, and mango. Native to the Andes region, Cherimoya thrives in subtropical and tropical climates, where it produces heart-shaped, green, scaly fruits. The fruit’s soft, custard-like flesh is enjoyed fresh or used in smoothies, desserts, and fruit salads. Cherimoya trees are prized not only for their delicious fruit but also for their ornamental value, with glossy green leaves and fragrant, white flowers.
Mark Twain described Cherimoya to be his favorite fruit, as "The Most Delicious Fruit Known To Man"
Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value
Fruits: Cherimoya fruits are round or heart-shaped, with a green, scaly outer skin. The flesh inside is creamy white, rich, and custard-like, with a flavor profile that combines banana, pineapple, and papaya. It’s often referred to as “nature’s custard.” The fruit contains large black seeds, which are inedible. Cherimoya is rich in vitamins C and B6, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious treat that supports immune health and digestion.
Foliage: The tree has large, glossy green leaves that add ornamental appeal to any garden. These broad leaves create a lush, tropical look, making the tree attractive even when not in fruit.
Growth Habit: Cherimoya trees can grow up to 20-30 feet tall but are often pruned to maintain a more manageable size in home gardens. They grow best in warm, subtropical climates and begin producing fruit 3-5 years after planting.
Culinary and Medicinal Uses
Cherimoya is best enjoyed fresh, scooped out with a spoon and eaten on its own or added to fruit salads. Its creamy texture also makes it perfect for blending into smoothies, milkshakes, and tropical desserts. In some cultures, Cherimoya has been used in traditional medicine to treat digestive issues and support overall health due to its high fiber content and natural antioxidants.
Plant Type:
Tropical/Subtropical Evergreen or Semi-Deciduous Fruit Tree/Shrub
Harvest Season:
Late-Summer, Fall
Mature Size:
Up to 35 feet
Soil & Moisture:
Rich, well-drained soil with light acidity suit these warm-weather plants best. Provide regular moisture and humidity, but be careful not to over water. Annona's are intolerable to water-logging. Requires deep watering during growing/fruiting seasons and less during winter dormancy.
Light Requirements:
Full Sun, Part Shade
Overall, expect best fruit production with more sun
Self-Fertile:
Yes
Growth Rate:
Fast, Medium
Zone Hardiness:
Outdoors 9-11 (frost protection until established); Patio/Greenhouse 4+
Annona's (especially Soursop) may defoliate during the winter in subtropical regions (40 degrees or lower), but remain evergreen in their native deep tropical habitats. Sugar Apples are generally tolerant to 28 degrees, whereas some Annona's like Soursop will need more cold protection if growing outdoors in Zone 9.
Propagation:
Our Annonas are grown from seed and air-layering and are capable of fruiting within 2-5 years.
See More:
Annona (from Taíno annon) is a genus of flowering plants in the pawpaw/sugar apple family, Annonaceae. The generic name derives from anón, a Hispaniolan Taíno word for the fruit.
Our Annona varieties include Sugar Apples, Red Custard Apple, Soursop, Pond Apple, and Cherimoya fruit trees.
Quick Care Guide
| Plant Type: | Perennial Tropical Fruit Tree |
| Harvest Season: | Late Winter to Spring |
| Mature Size: | 20-30 feet tall, 15-20 feet wide |
| Soil & Moisture: | Well-draining, fertile soil; moderate watering |
| Light Requirements: | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Growth Rate: | Moderate |
| Self-fertile: | No (requires hand pollination or cross-pollination). We recommend growing at least two or more plants for an increased chance of fruit production. |
| Zone Hardiness: | Outdoors 9-11; Patio/Greenhouse 4+; Grown as a container plant in cooler zones |
| Propagation: | Grown from seeds or grafted plants; fruiting begins in 3-5 years. |
Growing Guide for Cherimoya
Climate and Soil Requirements
- Climate: Cherimoya thrives in warm, subtropical to tropical climates and is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 9-11. It prefers mild winters and cool summers. While it is not frost-tolerant, it does well in areas with cool, dry winters and moderate summer temperatures.
- Soil: Cherimoya prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.5-7.0). Adding organic compost or well-rotted manure will improve soil fertility and moisture retention.
Planting
- Location: Choose a sunny to partially shaded location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Full sun is best for fruit production, but Cherimoya can tolerate partial shade in hotter climates.
- Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by loosening it and adding compost or organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
- Planting Time: Plant in the spring or early summer, when the risk of frost has passed.
- Spacing: Space trees 15-20 feet apart to allow for their spreading growth habit.
Watering
- Consistent Moisture: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Cherimoya trees need consistent watering during the growing season but can tolerate slightly drier conditions during the winter months.
Sunlight and Fertilizing
- Full Sun to Partial Shade: Ensure the tree receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily for optimal fruit production. In very hot climates, some afternoon shade may help prevent leaf burn.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer to support healthy growth and fruiting. Organic compost or liquid fertilizer can be used to improve soil fertility.
Pruning and Maintenance
- Moderate Maintenance: Cherimoya trees benefit from regular pruning to maintain size, shape, and air circulation. Prune in late winter before new growth begins, removing any dead or crossing branches. Regular pruning will encourage better fruit production.
- Pollination: Cherimoya trees are not self-fertile and require either hand pollination or cross-pollination by another tree. Hand pollination is often needed for consistent fruiting, especially in home gardens.
Pest and Disease Management
- Common Pests: The tree may attract pests such as aphids, mealybugs, or scale. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage infestations.
- Diseases: Ensure good air circulation and proper drainage to prevent fungal diseases like root rot and leaf spot. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Harvesting Cherimoya
When to Harvest:
- Cherimoya fruits are typically harvested in late winter to spring, once the fruit has reached full size and the skin begins to slightly soften. The fruit should yield slightly to gentle pressure, similar to an avocado.
How to Use:
- To enjoy Cherimoya, simply cut the fruit in half and scoop out the creamy flesh with a spoon, avoiding the large black seeds. It’s delicious on its own or can be added to fruit salads, blended into smoothies, or used in desserts.
