Soursop – Annona montana

Okay, let’s discuss 

Annona montana, also known as Mountain Soursop.

1. Description:

• Tree: A medium-sized tree that’s closely related to the more popular Soursop (Annona muricata).
• Fruit: Produces large, green, spiny fruits with a fibrous, yellow-orange pulp.
• Taste: The fruit has a unique flavor, described as a blend of sweet and tart, with a hint of bitterness.
• Leaves: Large, glossy, dark green, leathery leaves that release a strong aroma when crushed. 

2. Growing Mountain Soursop in Florida:

• Climate: While it’s a tropical fruit, it’s more cold-hardy than regular soursop, tolerating temperatures a few degrees below freezing.
• Hardiness: Grows well in USDA zones 9b (25 degrees F) and higher. This means it can be successfully cultivated in many parts of Florida, especially Southern Florida.
• Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth.
• Soil: Adaptable to various soil types, but prefers well-drained conditions.
• Watering: Regular watering is important, especially during establishment. 

3. Uses:

• Fruit: Can be eaten fresh, but is also commonly used in juices, smoothies, and desserts.
• Traditional Medicine: Various parts of the tree have been used in traditional medicine for their purported medicinal properties.
• Rootstock: It’s sometimes used as a rootstock for cultivated Annona species. 

4. Key Differences from Soursop (Annona muricata):

• Cold Hardiness: Mountain soursop is more cold-hardy, making it suitable for a wider range of Florida locations.
• Taste: While similar, the flavor of Mountain soursop is generally considered less desirable than that of regular soursop.
• Texture: The flesh of Mountain soursop is more fibrous than regular soursop. 

5. Where to Find:

• Nurseries and Specialty Stores: You may be able to find Mountain soursop trees or seeds at specialty nurseries, exotic fruit vendors, and online retailers specializing in tropical plants.
• Local Farmers Markets: Check with local farmers markets, especially in South Florida, to see if any growers are offering this fruit. 

In summary, Mountain Soursop is a relatively easy-to-grow tree that produces edible, though perhaps less flavorful, fruits compared to its more well-known relative. It’s a good option for Florida gardens, particularly if you are looking for a more cold-hardy Annona species.