Soursop (Guanabana) Plant

Often called Soursop, the Guanabana is a tropical tree whose large fruits have a unique and exciting flavor, which is often claimed to have health benefits. This tree is not frost-resistant, and can be grown outdoors in southern Florida or other frost-free areas. It makes a great houseplant if you have room for a small tree, and will fruit indoors if hand-pollinated. The large, glossy leaves are dark green year-round, and in spring greenish-yellow flowers over an inch across form on the stems. These develop into large fruits, 9 inches long, or more, with a knobby green skin that hides a delicious white pulp. When the skin turns yellowish the fruit is ripe, and it’s time to enjoy the unique flavor of this tropical treat. With a flavor often compared to pineapple, but also like strawberries or apples, the tangy flesh can be eaten out of the fruit, or turned into delicious smoothies, ice-creams, sherbets or juices. Maybe you have met this fruit in the Caribbean, and here is your chance to grow your very own, fresh, delicious and unique.

• Large green fruits conceal delicious white flesh
• Unique flavor or strawberries, apple and pineapple
• Handsome, glossy evergreen leaves
• Can be grown outdoors in frost-free zones
• Great houseplant and attractive small tree

Grow the Guanabana in full sun, or in a bright window. It grows in sandy and even alkaline soils, but prefers deep, rich, well-drained soil that is on the dry side. In a pot blend cactus soil with regular potting soil, and fertilize regularly, especially in spring and early summer. Use a soft paint brush to transfer pollen between the flowers when grown indoors. If possible, place outdoors from late spring to early fall, bringing indoors when there is a risk of temperatures below 45. Can be eaten by deer and rabbits, and may be affected by typical houseplant pests, but it has no particular susceptibilities, and is fast-growing. Avoid eating the poisonous seeds and skin.