Introduction to Custard Apple (based on internet)
Custard apple (Annona squamosa), commonly known as sugar apple, sitaphal (in India), or
sweetsop, is a tropical fruit that belongs to the Annonaceae family. This fruit is well-loved for
its sweet, creamy, and fragrant pulp, making it a favorite among fruit lovers. It is known for its
scaly green outer skin and soft, white flesh, which has a custard-like texture, hence the name
"custard apple."
Origin and Geographic Distribution
Custard apple is believed to have originated in South America and the West Indies, later
spreading to Central America, Asia, and Africa. The Portuguese are credited with introducing
the fruit to India, Southeast Asia, and Australia during their maritime trade expeditions.
Today, India is one of the largest producers of custard apple, with the fruit widely cultivated in
Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat.
The tree thrives in warm, dry climates and is well-suited for semi-arid regions. It prefers well-
drained, sandy, or loamy soil and can grow in areas with minimal rainfall. Due to its
adaptability, custard apple is also grown in parts of Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, Brazil,
and Australia.
Varieties of Custard Apple
There are several species of custard apple, each with distinct characteristics:
1. Annona squamosa (Sugar Apple) – The most widely known variety, with a sweet,
grainy texture and soft pulp.
2. Annona cherimola (Cherimoya) – Native to South America, it has a smoother skin
and a more custard-like texture than the sugar apple.
3. Annona reticulata (Bullock’s Heart) – Recognized for its reddish or brownish skin,
this variety has a slightly firmer texture and a mildly sweet taste.
4. Annona atemoya (Atemoya) – A hybrid of cherimoya and sugar apple, known for its
creamy pulp and pleasant aroma.
Each variety has its own unique taste and texture, but all share a common rich, sweet flavor that
makes custard apple a highly sought-after fruit.
Physical Characteristics of the Fruit
The custard apple fruit is round, heart-shaped, or irregularly oval, measuring between 5 to 10
cm in diameter. The outer skin is green and covered in segmented, scale-like patterns, giving
it a reptilian appearance.
As the fruit ripens, the skin softens slightly, making it easy to break open. Inside, the fruit
contains creamy-white or pale yellow flesh that is smooth, fragrant, and custard-like in
consistency. The pulp is divided into multiple segments, each enclosing a shiny, black,
inedible seed. The seeds are toxic if chewed or ingested in large amounts, but they have been
used in traditional medicine for various purposes.
Taste and Texture
Custard apple is renowned for its rich, sweet taste, which is often compared to a blend of
banana, pineapple, and vanilla. Some people also describe it as having hints of strawberry
and coconut. Its soft, creamy texture makes it ideal for eating fresh or incorporating into
desserts, smoothies, and milkshakes.
When fully ripe, the fruit can be easily scooped out with a spoon, making it a mess-free and
delightful eating experience. Unlike some tropical fruits, custard apple is non-acidic, making it
suitable for people with sensitive stomachs.
Growing and Harvesting
Custard apple trees are medium-sized and deciduous, growing up to 3 to 8 meters in height.
The tree has long, green leaves and produces fragrant, yellowish-green flowers before fruiting.
The fruit typically matures within 3 to 4 months after flowering. In India, custard apple season
falls between August and November, while in South America and Australia, it is harvested
during late summer and early autumn.
To determine ripeness, farmers and consumers look for a slight color change in the fruit,
softening of the skin, and an aromatic scent. Unlike some fruits, custard apple does not ripen
on the tree—it continues to ripen after being harvested.
Conclusion
Custard apple is a highly nutritious and delicious fruit enjoyed by people around the world.
With its sweet, custard-like pulp, rich history, and wide range of varieties, it remains one of
the most sought-after tropical fruits. Whether eaten fresh, blended into drinks, or used in
desserts, custard apple is a true delicacy that offers both taste and health benefits.
