Hardshell custard-apple, Posh-te

Annona liebmanniana

Physical Characteristics

Annona liebmanniana is an evergreen Tree growing to 20 m (65ft) by 20 m (65ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10 and is frost tender. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very acid and very alkaline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist or wet soil. The plant is not wind tolerant.

Distribution

Central America - south Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw. Delicious and aromatic, it is best eaten fresh from the plant[ 46 , 301 ]. A richer flavour than the soursop (A. muricata) with a suggestion of the flavour of the white sapote (Casimiroa edulis)[ 301 ]. A creamy banana-pineapple like flavour, it is said to be one of the most flavourful and refreshing fruits in the genus[ 377 ]. The fruit has an agreeable flavour, it is 8 - 10cm in diameter, but the seeds are very large, up to 2cm long[ 331 ].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known