Soursop

Overview

Soursop bears large, dark green fruit covered in soft spines, with creamy, fibrous, sweet-tart white pulp.

History

Native to the Caribbean and tropical Americas.

Growing on Kauaʻi

• Needs warm, frost-free lowland sites.
• Good drainage and shelter from wind.

Planting and propagation

• Grows easily from fresh seed.
• Plant in rich soil and mulch well.

Care and maintenance

• Water during dry spells.
• Hand-pollinating flowers can improve fruit set.

Role in the guild

A sub-canopy fruit tree for warm, lowland guilds.

Harvest

Pick when the skin turns slightly yellowish-green and the spines soften, then let it soften at room temperature.

Uses

• Food: pulp fresh, in juices, smoothies, and ice cream; don’t eat the seeds.

Important caution

Don’t eat the seeds, and enjoy the fruit in moderation. Soursop seeds are toxic, and studies have linked very heavy, long-term consumption of soursop fruit and leaf teas to nerve problems.

Problems to watch

• Fruit flies and fruit rot.
• Annona seed borer.

General guidance for Kauaʻi; conditions vary by site. Check any new plant at plantpono.org before planting.