Sugar apple trees, also known as Annona squamosa, are a part of the Annonaceae family, and are native to the West Indies, Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean and South America. This evergreen tree is small to medium in size and reaches a height of around 17.8 feet, with a spreading umbrella-like canopy. The trunk of the sugar apple is short and thick, with smooth, light green bark.
The leaves of the sugar apple tree are spirally arranged, ovate in shape and serrated on the margins. They typically measure 7.8 – 12 inches in length, boasting a dark green color on their upper surface and a silvery-green hue on their lower surface. The leaves are quite fragrant and are known to produce a sweet aroma in the morning. The flowers of the sugar apple tree are small and greenish-white, and present as solitary buds.
Fruit of the sugar apple tree is typically ready for harvest between the months of April and June. The fruit typically measures 2 – 6 inches in diameter and has a bumpy, scaly exterior. When ripe, the sugar apple turns from green to yellow and has a sweet, creamy fleshy pulp with an almost syrupy texture. The taste is said to consist of a combination of tropical flavors like custard apple and cherimoya. The seeds of the sugar apple are toxic and need to be removed before consumption.
Sugar apple trees thrive in moderately moist and humus soils, although they are known to tolerate drought conditions. They do best in temperatures that range between 60°F and 90°F, and should be planted in a sunny spot sheltered from strong winds. Pruning is generally not required, although if necessary a light trim during winter can help maintain the canopy shape. Pests and diseases affecting this tree mostly include scale insects, whiteflies, and aphids.
The best way to propagate a sugar apple tree is by softwood cuttings taken from mature stems. Cuttings should be taken during the spring season and planted in a rooting medium such as sand, soil, or a combination of perlite and peat moss. The cuttings should be kept damp and misted frequently, however it is important to not overwater as this can damage the roots. After about 1-2 months, the cuttings should start to produce new shoots and leaves, indicating that the tree was successfully propagated.
Harvesting and Storing
It is important to note that sugar apples should be harvested when the fruits have reached their peak of maturity. Ripe sugar apples turn yellow and can easily be picked from the branches by hand or pruners. They should be stored in a cool place and consumed within a few days of harvesting. If stored in an airtight container, sugar apples can last up to a week.
Uses
The sugar apple is commonly used in jams, fruit salads, juices and desserts. The sweet, creamy pulp of the sugar apple is also highly nutritious, boasting a range of health benefits. The fruit is packed with minerals such as potassium and iron, as well as vitamins A and C. Sugar apples are also believed to hold anti-inflammatory properties, and can help in fighting conditions such as asthma, bronchitis and arthritis.
Cultivation
The sugar apple tree is known to be relatively easy to cultivate, making them ideal for backyard gardens. They typically take 3 to 4 years to begin fruiting, and may benefit from the application of organic fertilizers during the growing season. As the fruit is prone to infestations caused by insects, it is important to regularly check for pests and apply suitable insecticides to remove them.
Nutritional Profile
The fruit of the sugar apple tree is highly nutritious, containing a range of essential vitamins, minerals and fiber. They are especially rich in vitamin C, fiber, iron and potassium, with just one cup of sugar apple containing around 16% of the daily recommended amount of vitamin C. Aside from this, sugar apples also contain trace amounts of calcium, phosphorus and magnesium.
Nutrition Benefits
Sugar apples are said to have a number of health benefits, particularly when it comes to eye health. The high vitamin A content in the fruit can help protect the eyes from macular degeneration and other age-related conditions. Furthermore, the antioxidants present in the fruit can help to protect the eyes from free-radical damage. Additionally, the high potassium content in the fruit may help reduce blood pressure levels, while the high fiber content may help improve gut health.
