Contents
Description
Annona Montana, also known as Mountain Soursop, is a small tree that is native to the Caribbean islands and northern South America. It belongs to the Annonaceae family and is known for its edible fruit, which is similar in taste to the Soursop fruit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Magnoliales |
| Family | Annonaceae |
| Genus | Annona |
Appearance
Annona Montana is a small evergreen tree that can grow up to 8 meters in height. It has a straight trunk and a dense, bushy crown. The leaves are simple, alternate, and elliptical in shape, with a glossy green surface and a pale underside. The flowers are small, yellow-green, and appear in clusters on the branches. The fruit is round, with a green, spiky skin and white, juicy flesh inside.
Care Guide
When it comes to caring for Annona Montana, it is important to provide it with the right conditions to thrive. Here are some tips:
Water
The tree prefers moist but well-drained soil, so make sure to water it regularly. However, be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced fertilizer every three months during the growing season (spring and summer).
Soil
The tree prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is not suitable, you can amend it with organic matter such as compost or peat moss.
Sunlight
Annona Montana requires full sun to partial shade. Make sure to plant it in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Hardiness Zones
The tree can grow in USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like any plant, Annona Montana is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common ones:
Pests
- Mealybugs
- Mites
- Caterpillars
- Fruit flies
Diseases
- Anthracnose
- Fungal diseases
- Root rot
- Powdery mildew
Habitat
Annona Montana is native to the Caribbean islands and northern South America. It can be found in tropical and subtropical regions, growing in a variety of habitats such as forests, savannas, and riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Annona Montana edible?
A: Yes, the fruit of Annona Montana is edible and is similar in taste to the Soursop fruit.
Q: Can Annona Montana grow in colder climates?
A: No, the tree requires a warm, tropical climate and cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures.
Q: How long does it take for Annona Montana to bear fruit?
A: The tree typically begins to bear fruit 3-4 years after planting.
Q: How often should I prune my Annona Montana tree?
A: Prune the tree once a year during the dormant season (winter) to maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased branches.
Related Plants
- Annona cherimola
- Annona muricata
- Annona reticulata
- Annona squamosa
References
- “Annona montana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 1, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b427
- “Mountain Soursop.” Purdue University Center for New Crops & Plant Products. Accessed September 1, 2021. https://hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/mountain_soursop.html
- “Annona montana.” Useful Tropical Plants. Accessed September 1, 2021. https://uses.plantnet-project.org/en/Annona_montana_(PROSEA)
