Growing Guide: Cherimoya

Attribute Details
Botanical Name Annona cherimola
Common Names Cherimoya, Custard Apple, Chirimoya
Family Annonaceae
Origin Andean valleys of Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, and Colombia
Plant Type Semi-deciduous fruit tree
Life Cycle Perennial
Mature Size 15–30 ft tall x 15–20 ft wide
Light Full sun to light shade
Water Needs Moderate; keep soil evenly moist
Soil Fertile, well-drained, sandy loam
Bloom Time Spring to early summer
Flower Color Greenish-yellow with purple flecks
USDA Zones 9b–11 (container-friendly in cooler zones)
Florida Native No
Propagation Grafted preferred; also by seed
Seasonal Traits Semi-deciduous; drops leaves in cooler months
Time to Harvest Within 1–3 years (seedling), 2–4 years (grafted); fruit ripens fall–winter