Cherimoya
Annona cherimola · Annonaceae
📷 Marcelo RosaMelo · CC0
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around cherimoya and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Scientific name
- Annona cherimola
- Family
- Annonaceae
- Form
- Tree
- Adult height
- Up to 6 meters
- Foliage
- Deciduous to semi-evergreen
- Flowering
- November to January
- Hardiness
- Frost-sensitive (tolerance down to –3 °C)
- Origin
- Andes (Ecuador, Peru, Colombia)
✓ Taxonomy verifiedSource: AI estimate · hardiness: reliability medium.
Expert tips
The key tip
The cherimoya tree needs warm conditions, deep soil, and shelter from cold winds. Two compatible trees improve fruit set.
The common mistake
Growing it alone or exposing it too much to cold often results in plenty of flowers but few fruits.
The pro's trick
At flowering time, hand-pollinate with a fine brush in the morning to help fruit set.
Care
Sunlight
The cherimoya tree appreciates full sun exposure to promote good fruiting. A minimum of 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily is recommended. In very hot regions, light afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent sunscald.
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season (spring-summer), keeping the soil moist but without waterlogging. Reduce watering in autumn-winter. A mulch at the base helps retain moisture and regulate root temperature.
Soil and drainage
Choose well-draining soil, rich in organic matter and slightly acidic. A mix of garden soil, compost, and potting mix promotes good growth. Optimal drainage is essential to prevent root diseases.
Fertilizing and nutrition
Apply balanced fertilizer or one slightly rich in potassium in spring and early summer. An annual application of well-decomposed compost enriches the soil. Reduce feeding in autumn to encourage flowering.
Pruning and training
Shape the tree during its first years to establish good structure. Remove dead wood and crossing branches after harvest. Light pruning maintains vigor and facilitates fruit picking.
Pests and diseases
Watch for scale insects and spider mites, particularly in warm climates. Powdery mildew can appear in excessively humid conditions. Good air circulation and adequate drainage reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
Did you know?
The cherimoya tree was cultivated by the Incas long before Spanish conquest, who popularized the fruit in Europe in the 16th century. Its name "cherimoya" comes from the Quechua word "chirimuya," literally meaning "cold fruit of the mountains." Botanist Carl Linnaeus named it Annona cherimola in recognition of this remarkable Andean heritage.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.