Knobbly green fruit with sweet, fragrant, custard-like flesh on a briefly deciduous subtropical tree. Hand-pollination greatly improves the crop in cooler districts.
At a glance
- Plant type: Fruiting tree
- Mature size: 6 m H × 5 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Custard Apple
Annona cherimola is a moderate-growing fruiting tree in the Annonaceae family. It reaches around 6 m tall and 5 m wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage.
Where to grow Custard Apple
Custard Apple suits subtropical, tropical and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Custard Apple does best in free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Custard Apple is regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Custard Apple in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Custard Apple in the garden
Custard Apple earns its place for edible harvests and a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Custard Apple with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and subtropical climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Buying Custard Apple
Plant Sale lists Custard Apple as potted plants, advanced specimens and bare-root stock. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.