Description
It is a small deciduous or semi-evergreen tree reaching 8 metres (26 ft) to 10 metres (33 ft) tall with an open, irregular crown.
The slender leaves are hairless, straight and pointed at the apex (in some varieties wrinkled), 10 centimetres (3.9 in) to 20 centimetres (7.9 in) long and 2 centimetres (0.79 in) to 7 centimetres (2.8 in) wide.[5][6] The yellow-green flowers are generally in clusters of three or four 2 centimetres (0.79 in) to 3 centimetres (1.2 in) diameter, with three long outer petals and three very small inner ones. Its pollen is shed as permanent tetrads.
The fruits vary in shape, heart-shaped, spherical, oblong or irregular. The size ranges from 7 centimetres (2.8 in) to 12 centimetres (4.7 in), depending on the cultivar. When ripe, the fruit is brown or yellowish, with red highlights and a varying degree of reticulation, depending again on the variety. The flesh varies from juicy and very aromatic to hard with a repulsive taste. The flavor is sweet and pleasant, akin to the taste of ‘traditional’ custard.
Germination Guide
🌍 West Indies (Caribbean and Central America)
Moderate
Annona reticulata, commonly known as custard apple or bullock's heart, is a small tropical deciduous or semi-evergreen tree native to the West Indies. Seeds exhibit natural dormancy and low to medium germination rates, requiring proper seed treatment to improve emergence. Consistent warmth, humidity, and light are essential for successful seedling establishment.
Germination
Germination time
Expect germination in
14 – 90 days
Temperature
Min 18°C
Ideal 25°C
Max 30°C
Substrate moisture
💧💧 High
Sowing depth
Lightly covered
Seed Pre-treatment
-
💧
Soaking — 24 hours
Soak scarified seeds in warm water at 60°C (140°F) for 24 hours or in room-temperature water for 48-72 hours to soften seed coat
-
🔨
Mechanical scarification
Lightly scarify seeds with fine sandpaper or make a small incision at the hilum
-
📋
Additional notes
Use high-quality, light, porous, well-draining pathogen-free substrate such as perlite, vermiculite, or peat moss mix
Substrate & Container
Recommended substrate
Perlite, vermiculite, or peat moss blend
Recommended container
Plastic pot with transparent lid or seed starting tray
Growing Tips
Seed scarification is critical—lightly scratch the seed coat or make a small incision at the hilum before soaking. Use warm water (60°C) for faster dormancy breaking. Fresh seeds germinate better than old seeds. Maintain constant moisture without waterlogging. Germination may take 2-7 months, so patience is required. Once seedlings emerge, provide bright, indirect light and acclimate to full sunlight gradually before transplanting. Keep substrate warm (75-85°F) during germination period.
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