Family: Annonaceae

Soursop is a small evergreen tree that bears delicious fruit. Soursop is the most popular of the Annona genus, likely because it doesn’t require hand pollination as most other genus members require. Seeds are true to their parents. Sow fresh seeds in the soil, keep moist. Germination is fast, a few days. Plant in good soil with organic matter and plenty of drainage, fertilize at regular intervals. It sets fruit multiple times a year.

Soursop has a plethora of medical uses. Many parts of the tree have been used since ancient times. Today scientists have found 212 medicinal benefits using different parts of the tree and preparations. Unfortunately, the seeds are the only inedible part of the tree as they are poisonous.

Plant Uses:

• Edible
• Medicinal

Plant Dangers:

• No dangers

High Risk Traits:

• History of repeated introductions worldwide
  
• Naturalized on Molokai
  
• Host for multiple pests and pathogens
  
• Congeneric species (Annona glabra) is invasive
  
• Produces viable, long-lasting seeds (>1 year)
  
• Self-compatible (can self-pollinate)
  
• Intentionally dispersed by humans for cultivation
  
• Forms a persistent seed bank

Low Risk Traits:

• Rarely naturalized (only few locations despite widespread cultivation)
  
• No weedy races or aggressive varieties
  
• Not reported as an agricultural or environmental weed
  
• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Not allelopathic, parasitic, or toxic
  
• Requires full sun (not shade tolerant)
  
• Limited soil adaptability
  
• Does not form dense thickets
  
• No vegetative reproduction
  
• Slow maturation (≥4 years to reproduce)
  
• Few effective seed dispersal mechanisms (wind, water, external animal)
  
• Low seed production (<1000/m²)