Annona purpurea (Soncoya)

Annona purpurea (Soncoya) tree is a medium-sized tree with a trunk that usually branches fairly low. It is native to Mexico, Panama, Colombia, and Venezuela, and can be grown in USDA hardiness Zone 9-11. It produces showy, fragrant pink flowers in May, June, and July, and from August to October, its green fruit with small spines develops. The fruit is rounded and 6-8 inches in diameter, covered with a felt-textured brown skin and hook-like projections. The fruit pulp is edible and has a sweet, fruity flavor. It can be eaten raw, strained for juice, or mixed with other ingredients for various drinks and folk remedies. In Mexico, Soncoya juice is regarded as a remedy for fever and chills. It is given to relieve jaundice, probably because of its color.

The Soncoya requires a hot, humid climate, and for optimal growth, the soil should be well-draining. For trees grown in a pot, a soil-less mix is best. In regions with colder climates, the trees should be placed in a south-facing location and given additional protection such as a windscreen, or bringing the pot indoors during the winter months. It is important to follow a regular watering regime, so that the soil is kept evenly moist but not soggy. It may also be necessary to provide additional fertilizer to the plant during the growing season.