Soursop
Annona muricata
An evergreen tree featuring glossy, dark green, elliptical leaves with smooth margins and pointed tips, producing large heart-shaped spiky green structures.
- Light
- Full sun, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct light daily.
- Water
- Moderate to high moisture requirement. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, maintaining consistent humidity and soil moisture.
- Growth
- Perennial broadleaf evergreen tree growing 15 to 30 feet tall with a compact, low-branching crown.
Care instructions
Provide full sun exposure and plant in rich, warm, well-draining soil. Water regularly to maintain consistent moisture, especially during dry spells, but ensure the roots do not sit in water. Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct light daily.
Watering
Moderate to high moisture requirement. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, maintaining consistent humidity and soil moisture.
Soil
Well-draining, sandy loam or rich organic soil with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5.
Hardiness zone
USDA Hardiness Zones 10 through 11.
Growth habit
Perennial broadleaf evergreen tree growing 15 to 30 feet tall with a compact, low-branching crown.
Bloom season
Blooms intermittently throughout the year in tropical climates; flowers are pale yellow to green with thick petals.
Propagation
Propagated via seeds, air-layering, or grafting onto compatible rootstocks.
Common pests & issues
Susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and leaf miners, as well as root rot if planted in poorly draining soil.
Similar species
Annona squamosa (Sugar Apple) and Annona reticulata (Custard Apple), which have similar glossy foliage but differ in leaf texture, branch structures, and surface characteristics.