Annona squamosa
Annona squamosa
Annona squamosa is a small, well-branched tree or shrub from the family Annonaceae that bears edible fruits called sugar-apples or sweetsops.
Pronunciation
Annona squamosa: /əˈnoʊnə skwəˈmoʊsə/
Etymology
The genus name 'Annona' is from the Latin word 'anon', meaning 'yearly produce', referring to the fruit's production throughout the year. The species name 'squamosa' is derived from the Latin word 'squama', meaning 'scale', referring to the scale-like texture of the fruit.
Description
The Annona squamosa tree grows between 3 and 8 meters in height and has a broad, open crown. The leaves are thin, oblong while the flowers are greenish-yellow. The fruit is compound, and though it is considered a berry, it consists of numerous, loosely united, fleshy carpels that are individually enveloped by a skin that forms the outer layer of the fruit.
Cultivation and uses
Annona squamosa is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions for its sweet, creamy fruit. The fruit is typically eaten fresh but can also be used in ice creams and desserts. The seeds, leaves, and bark are used in traditional medicine.
Related terms
- Annonaceae: The plant family to which Annona squamosa belongs.
- Sugar-apple: The common name for the fruit of Annona squamosa.
- Custard-apple: A common name for several fruits produced by plants in the Annona family, including Annona squamosa.
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