Annonas: Botany, Production and Uses

Annona is a genus of flowering plants in the Annonaceae family. They are trees, shrubs and vines (liana) growing in areas of warm climate in tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, Africa and Asia. The edible fruits of several species have significant commercial value, and include the cherimoya, soursop (also known as the guanabana or graviola), sweetsop or sugar apple, custard apple, ilama and the hybrid atemoya. The fruits are normally consumed fresh, though their short postharvest life often limits their access to markets. The processed pulp is in high demand by the juice industry, as well as for use in jellies, ice creams, desserts and bakery products. The fruits have high nutritional value due to an abundance of carbohydrates and high concentrations of antioxidants, minerals and fibre. Interest in Annona species has flourished over the past two decades, due to their biology and ecology; applications in nutraceuticals and medicine; and prospects as an alternative crop in the climate change scenario. This book details the history, physiology, cultivation, postharvest management and value addition of Annona species and is aimed at researchers in horticulture and plant science, and industry practitioners.