This article will offer insight into two lovely tropical fruits – atemoya (Annona × atemoya) and cherimoya (Annona cherimola). You will learn how they are similar and a handful of their unique traits.
Atemoya vs. Cherimoya: Comparison
We have highlighted some of these traits to showcase the differences between atemoya and cherimoya. You will find a chart below that breaks down the distinctions between each fruit. Both atemoya (Annona × atemoya) and cherimoya (Annona cherimola) belong to the Annonaceae family and Annona genus. This genus boasts roughly 200 unique species, while the Annonaceae family has approximately 2,000 species across 119 genera. While the two cousins have commonalities, they also have some unique attributes. Some differences include the classification, origin, size, and fruit. Below, we examine each of these attributes in depth.
Atemoya vs. Cherimoya: Scientific Classification
While atemoya and cherimoya come from the same genus, they have one striking difference. Annona × atemoya does not occur in the wild. Instead, it is a hybrid between Annona squamosa and Annona cherimola. So you need to save seeds to plant additional trees as this hybrid will not reproduce. In contrast, Annona cherimola is a wild-growing species that produces viable seeds.
Atemoya vs. Cherimoya: Origin
The USDA developed the atemoya hybrid in a lab in the early 1900s. But the naturally occurring cherimoya is native to Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia.
Atemoya vs. Cherimoya: Size
The tree that produces atemoya fruit is small and tropical. At maturity, it will reach up to 26 feet tall. Due to its relatively small stature, it is ideal for the backyard or ornamental gardens. Cherimoya trees can grow slightly taller. At their smallest, they will only reach 19 feet. But in optimal growing conditions, the trees grow to a maximum of 32 feet. You can still grow it in your backyard. You just may need a little extra space.
Atemoya vs. Cherimoya: Fruit
One of the biggest differences between atemoya and cherimoya is the tasty fruit. While atemoya fruit more closely resembles A. cherimola than A. squamosa, it developed some very unique characteristics. Its green skin has spikes. Additionally, the fruit is slightly smaller, ranging from 3 to 6 inches in diameter. The creamy inner flesh tastes much like pineapple, only slightly more sour. However, the cherimoya fruit grows much larger. Typically the fruit is the size of grapefruit but can reach an astounding 11 pounds! Its inner flesh is juicy, white, and highly fragrant. Not many people can agree on its flavor, but all agree that it is an interesting combination of all your favorite tropical fruits.
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Atemoyas have a flavor resembling a slightly sour pineapple or even a pina colada. How do I know when my atemoya is ripe? Feel free to dive into this tasty fruit once the skin develops a brown hint and it gives slightly under gentle pressure. Can you eat cherimoya raw? Yes, you can eat it raw if you remove the seeds. Alternatively, it makes a marvelous addition to several sweet and savory dishes. What month is cherimoya in season? You will typically find cherimoya in season starting in November. Its season lasts until spring, but the availability depends on the weather.
