The Sugar Apple Tree (Annona squamosa), also called Sweetsop or Custard Apple, is a small tropical fruit tree cherished for its fragrant, sweet, and creamy fruits. The fruit’s segmented green rind encases soft, custard-like flesh with a distinctive, dessert-quality taste that’s both exotic and refreshing.
These non-GMO sugar apple seeds produce compact, fast-growing trees ideal for warm climates or container growing in greenhouses. Loved for both their ornamental beauty and delicious fruit, Sugar Apples bring a taste of the tropics to your home garden.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Annona squamosa |
| Common Names | Sugar Apple, Sweetsop, Custard Apple |
| Plant Type | Tropical Deciduous Tree |
| Fruit Color | Green rind, creamy white interior |
| Season | Warm-season fruiting |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | 9–11 |
| Growth Habit | Small, spreading tree |
| Mature Height | 10–20 ft |
| Sunlight | Full sun |
| Soil Type | Well-drained, sandy loam; pH 6.0–7.5 |
| Water Needs | Moderate; prefers consistent moisture during fruiting |
| Heirloom | Yes |
| GMO Status | Non-GMO |
| Organic Option | Available (check variant) |
| Bloom Time | Late spring to early summer |
| Harvest Time | Late summer to fall |
| Pollination | Hand-pollination improves fruit set; insect-assisted in warm regions |
Planting Guide
- Seed Preparation: Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting.
- Sowing Depth: ½ inch deep in moist, well-drained soil.
- Germination Time: 3–6 weeks at 75–90°F.
- Light Requirements: Full sun for best growth and fruiting.
- Watering: Keep soil moist but not soggy during growth period.
- Spacing: 10–15 feet apart outdoors or one tree per large container.
- Maintenance: Prune lightly to shape and promote airflow; protect from frost.
Growing Tips
- Ideal for tropical and subtropical gardens, patios, or greenhouses.
- Requires warm temperatures and protection from frost.
- Fertile, well-drained soil enhances fruit sweetness.
- Pollination improves yield—hand-pollinate flowers for best results.
- Fruits are ready to harvest when rind softens slightly and segments begin to separate.
