Annona reticulata is a small deciduous or semi-evergreen tree in the plant family Annonaceae. It is best known for its fruit, called custard apple, and A. squamosa. Other English common names include ox heart and bullock's heart. The fruit is sweet and useful in preparation of desserts, but is generally less popular for eating than that of A. cherimola.
Description
thumb|right|Custard apple at fruit vendor, [[Sangareddi, India]]
thumb|Flower bud of Annona reticulata
thumb|Pollen grains of Annona reticulata
It is a small deciduous or semi-evergreen tree reaching tall with an open, irregular crown.
The fruits vary in shape, heart-shaped, spherical, oblong or irregular. Annona reticulata is now pantropical. In India, the species has migrated from initial cultivation into the wild. Compared to the other Annona, it is less drought tolerant. The annual temperature necessary ranges from . It tolerates light night frosts to .
Propagation
A. reticulata may be grown in home gardens, even though it may not be as popular as the sugar apple (A. squamosa). It has value as rootstock for superior Annona species, such as the sugar apple, especially under humid conditions. It is also a genetic resource for hybridization. Raw custard apple is 72% water, 25% carbohydrates, 2% protein, and 1% fat (table).
Risk and impact
Annona reticulata is known to be an invasive plant.
Aroma and phytochemicals
The fragrant aroma of A. reticulata results from some 180 compounds, including the volatile compounds, alpha-pinene, myrcene, and limonene, among others. The plant is rich in tannins.