Cherimoya

Cherimoya - Photo by Forest and Kim Starr

Cherimoya originates from the Andes area in South America. It is a small tree which is grown for its sweet fruits. The fruits are sometimes known as “custard apple” but that name is also used for several different (but related) fruit species.

Names

Scientific
   Annona cherimola
English
   Cherimoya
   Chirimoyo
   Chirimuya
   Custard apple
   Momona
Dutch
   Cherimoya
   Jamaica-appel
Spanish
   Chirimoya
   Chirimoyo
French
   Chérimole
   Chérimolier
German
   Cherimoya
   Chirimoya
   Churimoya

Taxonomy

Genus
   Annona
Family
   Annonaceae
Order
   Magnoliales

Basic information and facts

Origin:

Andes region in South America (Ecuador, Colombia, Peru)

Distribution:

Andes regions, Argentina, Mexico, California, South of Spain, Italy and Portugal.

Evergreen or deciduous:

Cherimoya is an evergreen fruit tree.

Fruits:

The fruits are oval, usually 10 to 20 cm long and about 7 to 10 cm in diameter. Fruits are smooth or have a slightly tuberculated skin surface. The sweet flesh is white and contains several dark brown seeds.

Climate and weather:

Cherimoya grows in subtropical climate. It can survive in mild temperate climates.

Pollination:

If natural pollinators are not available, hand pollination of flowers is necessary.

Height:

Grows as a shrub or trees which can get about 7 to 9 meter tall.

Spacing:

Propagation:

Grafting on seedlings.

Insect pests:

Mealybugs and snails can cause damage.

Harvesting:

Pick fruits when they are still firm and then allow them to soften at room temperature.

Uses:

Fruits are eaten fresh.

Crop categories

Fruits
Food crops
Subtropical crops

Pictures