Atemoya - African Pride - grafted

African Pride is a standout variety within the Annona family, known for its rich, tropical flavor that surpasses that of the cherimoya. The fruit is heart-shaped, medium to large in size, and features knobby green skin with custard-like flesh that has a slightly firmer texture than cherimoya. A highly popular commercial variety, African Pride is self-pollinating, produces consistently high yields, and ripens early in the season.

In contrast, the atemoya features a heart-shaped or rounded form with pale-green, bumpy skin. Near the stem, its skin resembles that of the sugar apple, gradually becoming smoother, akin to the cherimoya, towards the bottom. Its non-segmented flesh is exceptionally juicy and smooth, offering a mildly sweet flavor with subtle notes reminiscent of a piña colada. The sugar apple parent contributes a gentle vanilla undertone.

One of the best things about the African Pride atemoya is that it can be easily grown outdoors in the warmer, frost-free regions of New Zealand. In contrast, sugar apples require a greenhouse to thrive in NZ’s climate. However, since atemoya is a hybrid of the cherimoya and sugar apple, it inherits the cherimoya’s cold hardiness, allowing it to be grown outdoors in suitable areas.

If you live in a colder region of New Zealand but still want to grow atemoya, it can be successfully cultivated in a greenhouse. Additionally, it is well-suited for growing in a large pot, making it a versatile choice for home gardeners.

The tree has a stunning ornamental appearance, and when it flowers, it produces an amazing tropical fragrance. If you love custard apples, this is a must-have addition to your garden.