Sugar Apple Tree (Sweetsop Tree)

‘NaDai’ is listed as a selection of sugar apple (*Annona squamosa*), a small tropical tree with an open crown and sweet, segmented fruit. Grow it in a warm, protected site where spring flowers and developing fruit receive sun and steady moisture. ## Form and seasonal growth [UF/IFAS](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/MG330) describes sugar apple trees as spreading to upright and rarely more than 15–20 feet high and wide. Its green, fleshy flowers appear in mid-to-late spring; fruits may be heart-shaped, round, ovate, or conical, with white or creamy, custard-like pulp. [Kew’s Plants of the World Online](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:72319-1/general-information) recognizes *Annona squamosa* and lists sugar apple, sweetsop, and custard apple among its common names. ## Siting and water Choose a warm, protected location with full sun and well-drained soil. UF/IFAS notes that sugar apple is grown in warm parts of south Florida and benefits from steady soil moisture during flowering and fruit development; prolonged drought can reduce growth and fruit set. In regions with cool winters, expect seasonal leaf drop and protect the tree from frost. [PROSEA](https://prosea.prota4u.org/view.aspx?id=6696) also describes the species’ green flowers, segmented fruit, and semi-deciduous habit. ## Maintenance Water during dry periods, especially from flowering through fruit development. Selective pruning can keep the canopy compact; remove dead wood and harvest fruit as it softens and separates at the segments.