🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
The fruit is edible, with a sweet and slightly acidic flavor, used in beverages, desserts, and ice cream. Leaves are traditionally used in herbal teas for their purported sedative and medicinal properties. The tree provides shade and can be used as a windbreak in tropical permaculture systems. Seeds are sometimes used as a natural insecticide. Extracts have potential uses in medicine and cosmetics.
Permapeople description
A tropical fruit tree known for its spiny green fruit.
Botanical description
Annona muricata is a broadleaf, evergreen tree native to the tropical regions of the Americas and the Caribbean. It typically grows to a height of 25-30 feet. It has large, oblong to ovate, glossy dark green leaves. The flowers are large, solitary, and greenish-yellow. The fruit is a large, heart-shaped or oval syncarp, up to 12 inches long and weighing up to 15 pounds. It has a green, prickly skin and a white, fibrous, aromatic pulp containing black seeds. The tree thrives in warm, humid climates with well-drained soil.
Companion planting
Soursop benefits from companion planting with plants that provide shade in the early stages of growth. Legumes can improve soil nitrogen. Avoid planting near plants susceptible to root rot.
Propagation methods
Propagation is primarily through seeds. Seeds should be fresh for best germination rates. Cuttings can be used, but rooting can be challenging. Grafting is also practiced to propagate desirable cultivars.
History and traditions
Soursop has a long history of traditional use in indigenous cultures throughout the Americas and the Caribbean. The fruit, leaves, roots, and bark have been used for various medicinal purposes, including treating fever, pain, inflammation, and digestive issues. In some cultures, the leaves are used in rituals and ceremonies. It's also been the subject of much recent, albeit controversial, research regarding its potential anti-cancer properties.
Usage calendar
Flowering can occur year-round in tropical climates. Fruit maturation typically takes 4-5 months after flowering. Harvesting occurs when the fruit is slightly soft to the touch. Planting is best done during the rainy season. Pruning is generally done to maintain shape and remove dead or diseased branches.