Also known as Alligator-Apple · Alligatorapfel · Annone Des Marais
Pond Apple (Annona glabra) is a wetland shrub or small tree native to Florida, the Caribbean, and Central America, producing a yellowish fruit.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best growth and fruiting.
Keep soil consistently moist
75% intensity
Tolerates occasional drying but prefers consistent moisture.
Clay, Loam, Sand, Wet
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in tropical to subtropical climates. Protect from frost; temperatures below 0°C can be damaging.
Moderate feeding
50% intensity
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring and mid-summer. Compost is beneficial.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Annona glabra thrives in consistently moist soil, mimicking its native wetland habitat. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot, but do not allow the soil to completely dry out. Reduced watering may be tolerated during cooler, dormant periods.
Prune annually in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Light pruning can encourage bushier growth.
For fruit production, some growers practice light tipping of new growth to promote flowering. Remove suckers from the base of the plant promptly.
Propagate Annona glabra from seeds, which should be sown fresh and kept moist. Stratification may improve germination.
Stem cuttings can also be taken from mature wood and treated with rooting hormone, though germination from seed is generally more straightforward for this species.
Young pond apple trees may need repotting every 1-2 years into a slightly larger container as their root systems develop. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Mature trees can be planted in their final location, as they generally dislike being transplanted. Ensure good drainage in the pot.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Pond Apple (Annona glabra)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Magnoliales |
| Family | Annonaceae |
| Genus | Annona |
| Species | Annona glabra |
Similar in genus Annona
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
