Custard Apple Tree - Cherimoya - Live Plant in a 4 Inch Growers Pot - Annona Cherimola - Beautiful Edible Fruit Bearing Tree for Patio or Garden

The Custard Apple Tree, botanically known as Annona cherimola, is a tropical fruit tree that produces a delicious, sweet fruit known for its custard-like texture and flavor. Commonly referred to as Cherimoya, this tree is native to the Andes mountains of South America but is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. With its lush green leaves and unique, heart-shaped fruits, the Custard Apple is as ornamental as it is tasty. The tree has a moderate growth habit, typically reaching heights of 15-25 feet when fully mature, though it can be pruned to maintain a smaller, more manageable size for residential gardens. Its fruits are greenish-yellow with a scaly skin, and the flesh inside is creamy, white, and filled with large, black seeds. The tree is self-pollinating, but cross-pollination can improve fruit yield. Known for its high nutritional value, the Custard Apple is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a healthy addition to your garden and diet. Whether you are a fruit enthusiast or a gardener looking to add a tropical tree to your collection, the Custard Apple is a rewarding choice that will bring beauty and delicious harvests year after year.Physical Characteristics: The Custard Apple tree boasts large, glossy, oval-shaped green leaves that form a dense canopy. Its most notable feature is the fruit, which has a unique scaly skin that ripens from green to yellow. The fruit’s creamy, custard-like flesh gives it its name, and inside, it contains large black seeds. The tree also produces small, white flowers in clusters, though the fruit is the main attraction.Light Requirements: The Custard Apple Tree thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Ensure the tree receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruiting. It may struggle in areas with prolonged cloud cover or too much shade, so plant it in a sunny spot with good air circulation.Watering Frequency: This tree requires regular watering, particularly in hot, dry climates. Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, as overwatering can cause root rot. Water deeply once a week, or more frequently during periods of intense heat. During the cooler months, reduce watering to prevent excess moisture retention.Soil Preferences: The Custard Apple prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It thrives in slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. Ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot. Adding compost or well-rotted manure can improve soil fertility and enhance the plant’s growth rate.Growth Rate and Size: Cherimoya trees have a moderate growth rate, often reaching maturity in 3-5 years when grown in ideal conditions. They typically grow 15-25 feet tall with a similar spread. Regular pruning helps maintain a compact size and encourages better fruit production. The tree is known for its distinctive, large leaves and attractive branching structure.