Family: Annonaceae
Annona hypoglauca, commonly known as wild soursop, majagua de aparo, or wild cherimoya, is a tropical fruit tree native to the rainforests of Central and South America. Belonging to the Annonaceae family, this species is closely related to the more widely known soursop (Annona muricata) and cherimoya (Annona cherimola). The wild soursop tree typically grows in shaded, moist environments, thriving in elevations ranging from 500 to 1,500 meters. Its fruit is smaller than that of its relatives, with a green, spiny skin and soft, aromatic white pulp. The flavor is sweet and tangy, often described as a blend of pineapple, banana, and citrus.
Annona hypoglauca is not known to be naturalized or invasive outside its native range, and it is also not widely cultivated. Its presence in cultivation is generally limited to specialty plant collections or home gardens in tropical regions. Because it is not commonly grown commercially, the species has minimal ecological or economic impact outside its native habitats, but it remains a unique component of tropical biodiversity.
High Risk Traits:
- Thrives in tropical climates
- Other Annona species are invasive
- Reproduces by seeds
- Seeds dispersed by fish, water and intentionally by people
- Limited ecological information may reduce accuracy of risk prediction
Low Risk Traits:
- No reports of invasiveness or naturalization, but no evidence of widespread introduction outside native range
- Unarmed (no spines, thorns or burrs)
- Non-toxic
- Edible fruit
- Relatively large fruit and seeds may minimize risk of accidental dispersal
