Common name: Soursop
Malay name: Durian Belanda
Scientific name: Annona muricata L.
Conservation status: Cultivated, Naturalised, Introduced (tropical Americas)
Description
A shrub or small tree that grows 3-10 m tall. Stems are slender and low-branching. Leaves are glossy, alternately arranged and give an offensive smell. The upperside of leaves is darker than the underside. Flowers are borne on trunk and branches. Flowers comprise 3 outer petals and 3 inner petals. The outer petals are fleshy, spreading and yellow-green, while inner petals are pale yellow and close-set. Fruit is somewhat egg-shaped, dark green when ripe and covered with soft, short spines.
Habit: Perennial tree
Cultivation: It is planted by seeds or cuttings
Ecological function: The flowers of this tree attract pollinators. It is a caterpillar food plant.
Pollinator: Insects, flies, bees
Soil: Sand, loam, clay
Moisture: Moist, well-drained, fertile soils
Shade: No shade, semi-shade
Use: Fruits are eaten raw or cooked.
