Annonaceae

Annona senegalensis

African custard apple, Wild custard apple

Small/Medium Tree

Common species

Size

Quantity

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About

This deciduous shrub or small tree typically grows 2-6 metres tall, occasionally reaching 11 metres under favourable conditions. It features grey-brown bark, oblong to ovate, bluish-green leaves often hairy on the underside, and small, fleshy pale yellow flowers. The distinctive lumpy, egg-shaped fruit ripens to a yellow or orange hue and contains a sweet, pineapple-flavoured pulp.

Where it works in Kilifi

It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-draining sandy loam soils, including those on coral-based rocks, making it suitable for coastal gardens. It can serve as a specimen tree, provide shade, or be used in restoration efforts.

Growing notes

Annona senegalensis is a slow-growing species that can be propagated easily from seed. Once established, it tolerates some drought but benefits from regular watering during the growing season. It is sensitive to frost and young plants require protection from fire, browsing, and may benefit from light shade.

Sources

Researched with web grounding from: sanbi.org, wikipedia.org, cabidigitallibrary.org, worldagroforestry.org, austinpublishinggroup.com, veliyathgarden.com. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.