Native & adapted

Sugar apple

Annona squamosa

Also known as Sweetsop · Custard apple · Sitaphal · Mãng cầu na

A small tree with knobby green fruit full of sweet, custardy segments. Loves heat but needs frost protection and afternoon shade.

EdibleFruitingSemi-deciduousContainer friendlyFrost tender

Landscape layersLower canopy

Mature size10–15 ft tall and 10–15 ft wide

Climate fitUrban core · USDA 9b–10a · Valley suburbs · USDA 9a–9b

Plant spacing10–12 ft from other trees

FrostDamaged at 32°F; killed below about 28°F without protection.

Special categoriesEDIBLE

Hardiness guidanceUSDA 10–11; damaged near 32°F and killed below about 28°F

Winter chillNone

Typical harvestLate summer through fall. Pick when the gaps between segments turn cream-colored.

Before you plant

These conditions determine whether it will thrive.

Soil chemistry

Fast-draining soil rich in compost. Phoenix soil is alkaline, so work in soil sulfur and organic matter and use chelated iron if new leaves turn yellow between the veins.

Required microclimatePlacement is part of the growing system.

Warm, sheltered spot with afternoon shade and frost cover.

Right plant, right place

Will Sugar apple grow at your Arizona property?

Often sold simply as custard apple. Fruits within 2 to 3 years.

Best regional fit: Urban core · USDA 9b–10a, Valley suburbs · USDA 9a–9b.

Light

Sun exposure

Morning sun with afternoon shade from June through September, such as the east side of a house or under a taller nurse tree. Protect from frost on winter nights.

Water

Irrigation

Moderate in the growing season; light in winter, when it rests.

Fruit set

Pollination

Self-fertile, but hand pollination improves fruit set.

Harvest

How to use it

Pull apart and eat the sweet segments fresh. Seeds are toxic.

Planting & stewardship

How to help Sugar apple thrive

1
Hand pollinate flowers with a brush for a bigger crop.
2
Cut watering back while it is leafless in winter.
3
Cover with frost cloth on nights below 32°F.
4
Prune lightly in late winter.

Read the horticultural reference ↗