Also known as Caribbean Custard Apple · Corossol · Graviola
Soursop (Annona muricata) is a tropical fruit tree known for its large, spiky, green fruit with a sweet and tangy pulp, widely used in juices and desserts.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruiting.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Water deeply when the top soil is dry, avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained, Sandy loam
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in tropical and subtropical climates (20-30°C). Protect from frost; it is sensitive to cold.
Moderate
50% intensity
Regular feeding during growth with balanced fertilizer and micronutrients.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Seeds and leaves contain annonacin, which may be toxic if ingested in large quantities.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Soursop thrives with consistent moisture. Water deeply when the top 5-10 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering slightly during cooler periods or if the plant is dormant, but never let the soil dry out completely.
Prune soursop to shape the tree, remove dead or diseased branches, and improve air circulation. Light pruning can be done anytime, but heavier pruning is best done after fruiting.
Pinching young shoots encourages bushier growth, leading to more fruiting wood.
Soursop can be propagated from seeds, which germinate within 10-30 days. Grafting is also common for faster fruiting and to maintain desirable cultivar traits.
Air layering can be successful, especially on mature, healthy trees.
Young soursop plants benefit from repotting every 1-2 years into slightly larger containers. Use a well-draining potting mix. Mature trees in the ground rarely need repotting.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root issues, especially in container plants.
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 Soursop (Annona muricata)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Magnoliales |
| Family | Annonaceae |
| Genus | Annona |
| Species | Annona muricata |
Similar in genus Annona
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
