Family: Annonaceae
Annona neosericea, commonly called araticum or pinha-de-mata, is a small tree in the custard apple family (Annonaceae) native to South America, particularly Brazil. It produces attractive yellow fruits with a sweet, edible pulp, making it locally valued as a seasonal wild fruit. Like other Annona species, it is also appreciated as an ornamental tree for its lush foliage and fragrant flowers. The plant grows best in tropical to subtropical climates and has potential for use in small-scale agroforestry and home gardens.
Outside of its native range, Annona neosericea is not widely cultivated, and there are no records of it becoming naturalized or invasive in Hawaiʻi or elsewhere. While its relatives include species that have established and spread in some tropical regions, this particular species has not shown invasive tendencies. It remains primarily a specialty fruit tree in its native areas, without evidence of posing ecological risks in new environments.
High Risk Traits:
- Thrives in tropical climates
- Other Annona species are invasive
- Reproduces by seeds
- Seeds dispersed by birds, mammals 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
