Annona cherimola

Annona cherimola is a species of Annonaceae family fruit tree, commonly known as the cherimoya. It is native to the Andes mountain range between Argentina and Ecuador, but is now cultivated worldwide in tropical regions.

Description

The Annona cherimola tree is an evergreen or semi-evergreen shrub reaching 7-10 meters in height. The leaves are simple, alternate and oblong-lanceolate. The flowers are hermaphroditic and are borne singly, with three outer, greenish-brown petals and three inner, yellowish-white petals.

The fruit, also known as the cherimoya, is a large, green, conical or heart-shaped compound fruit, 10-20 cm long, with a skin composed of overlapping, slightly raised areas. The flesh is white, creamy, and custard-like, hence the fruit is also known as the custard apple. It contains numerous black seeds.

Cultivation

Annona cherimola prefers high-altitude, tropical climates, but can also be grown in certain subtropical areas. It requires well-drained soil and regular watering. The tree is sensitive to frost.

The cherimoya fruit is harvested when fully grown, but still hard. It ripens at room temperature and is ready to eat when slightly soft to the touch.

Uses

The cherimoya fruit is consumed fresh and is praised for its sweet, aromatic flavor, which has been described as a blend of banana, pineapple, papaya, peach, and strawberry. It can also be used in ice creams, fruit salads, desserts, and smoothies.

In traditional medicine, various parts of the Annona cherimola tree have been used for their purported health benefits. The leaves have been used as a remedy for lice and the seeds have been used to treat parasitic infections.

See also

• Annona squamosa
• Annona muricata
• Annona reticulata