This article explores these two fruits. Continue reading to learn their similarities and differences.
Cherimoya vs. Custard Apple: Comparison
These two fascinating fruits share a common nickname – custard apple. So that can make it difficult to uncover their unique personalities and traits. It is helpful to explore specific characteristics to understand their differences, which you will find in the chart below. Both cherimoya (Annona cherimola) and custard apple (Annona reticulata) belong to the Annonaceae family and Annona genus. There are approximately 200 species in the Annona genus and more than 2000 species in the Annonaceae family. While cherimoya and custard apple come from the same family and share the same nickname, they are also starkly different. Some of the key differences are their origin, size, fruit, and growing requirements. Below, we examine each of these areas.
Cherimoya vs. Custard Apple: Origin
The cherimoya fruit is native to Ecuador, Peru, and Colombia. But its cousin, the custard apple is native to the West Indies.
Cherimoya vs. Custard Apple: Size
Cherimoya trees are relatively short deciduous trees. They grow anywhere from 19 to 32 feet in height. However, custard apple trees typically grow much larger. The broadleaf evergreens top out at 35 feet tall and develop an almost equivalent span. Their branches reach up to 30 feet across.
Cherimoya vs. Custard Apple: Fruit
The delicious cherimoya fruit has white and juicy flesh that smells almost as good as it tastes. While most develop to around the size of a grapefruit, the fruit can get up to an amazing 11 pounds. Their exterior is a lovely green, and they sport a cone or heart shape. The trees are propagated more for the tasty fruit than anything. You can eat them straight or incorporate them into drinks and desserts. On the other hand, custard apples are slightly smaller. They grow up to roughly 5 inches long and 2 pounds in weight. The skin varies between brown and yellowish-red, while the flesh is a luscious white. Unfortunately, custard apples are not known for their consistent flavor profile. You may get some with a divine flavor, while others do not taste good. So the trees are primarily grown as ornamentals rather than for fruit.
Cherimoya vs. Custard Apple: Growing Requirements
Thankfully, lovely cherimoya trees are relatively easy to grow in Zones 8-12. They are not frost tender, need full sun, and are not picky about their soil. You can successfully plant the trees in sandy, loamy, or clay soil. And you do not need to worry about the nutritional requirements. However, their soil should be well-draining and kept moist. Additionally, this lovely tree is drought-tolerant. In contrast, custard apple trees have a more restrictive range where they are winter hardy. You can grow these trees outside in Zones 10-11. They need nutritionally rich soil that is kept moist and well-draining. Unfortunately, they are very frost sensitive. But one or two nights that dip below freezing won’t usually hurt them.
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According to Mark Twain, it is “deliciousness itself.” Imagine a mash-up of all your favorite tropical fruits. People have described it as a combination of the following fruits: papaya, strawberry, pineapple, coconut, bananas, and mangoes. What are the health benefits of cherimoya? Cherimoya has surprisingly high levels of antioxidants, which help fight free radicals in your body. Other possible benefits are its potential ability to assist with digestion, fight inflammation, boost your mood, support your overall immunity, and help promote eye health. Additionally, they have a host of vitamins and minerals. Are custard apples poisonous? The flesh is not poisonous, but the seeds are. You will want to remove them before eating. Are sugar apples and custard apples the same? The names “sugar apple” and “custard apple” both refer to Annona reticulata. However, “custard apple” is also used to refer to several of A. reticulata’s cousins.
