Rare Green Araticú (Annona aff. rugulosa)

Description

A remarkable plant with a rich history and exceptional hardiness.

Nomenclature and Meaning: Known as Araticu-verde, which translates to “soft fruit” in Tupi, this species also goes by the names Araticum de porco, Araticum do Paraná, Araticum quaresma, Fruta da quaresma, and Fruta de cateto (porco).

Origin: Native to the Araucaria forests of Brazil, the Green Araticú is found in humid hills or along streams in the Atlantic Forest region. Its natural range extends from the state of São Paulo to Rio Grande do Sul. (More information: http://servicos.jbrj.gov.br/flora/search/Annona_rugulosa)

Distinguishing Features: This small to medium-sized tree, growing up to 14 meters tall in the wild, boasts a dense canopy and dark brown, fibrous bark. Its simple, papery, and deciduous leaves are glabrous (hairless) on the upper surface, measuring 6 to 18 cm in length and 1.8 to 3 cm in width, with a lanceolate shape, cuneate (wedge-shaped) base, and acuminate (tapering) apex.

The yellow, helical-shaped flowers bloom on new growth and feature three rounded petals. The fruits are syncarpous (formed by the fusion of several segments), measuring 4 to 8 cm in diameter, with a smooth, greenish-yellow skin enclosing a sweet and tangy pulp with numerous smooth, brown seeds.

Hardiness: Remarkably resilient, the Green Araticú thrives in subtropical to temperate climates and can withstand frost temperatures as low as -4°C (25°F), making it suitable for cultivation throughout Brazil at various altitudes.

Cultivation: This versatile species adapts well to sandy, clay, or red soils with good organic matter content and pH ranging from acidic to neutral. It can even be planted along riverbanks subjected to occasional flooding.

Propagation: The oblong, cylindrical seeds retain their germination potential for up to a year when stored clean and in a dark location. When planted fresh, they germinate within 40 to 90 days. Seedlings reach 30 cm in height within 9 months, preferring shaded conditions for optimal development. Fruiting begins between 3 to 5 years, depending on soil conditions and cultural practices.

Planting and Care: In orchards, space trees 5 x 5 meters apart, planting in 50 cm wide, deep holes filled with 20% sand and approximately 8 kg of well-composted organic matter. If the soil is highly acidic, add 2 kg of limestone to the planting hole and allow it to cure for 3 months before planting. Water with 10 liters per week for the first 2 months.

Prune to shape the canopy and remove basal or crossing branches. Fertilize annually in spring with well-composted chicken manure (5-6 kg) and 50 grams of 10-10-10 N-P-K fertilizer, doubling the amount each year until the third year.

Uses: Fruiting from April to May, the Green Araticú is a visually appealing tree suitable for parks and public spaces. Its fruits are an essential food source for birds, pacas, peccaries, tapirs, and coatis, making it a valuable addition to forest restoration efforts.

With an aroma and flavor reminiscent of soursop, the fruits are highly prized for fresh consumption, and the seeds easily separate from the pulp. The pulp can also be frozen for later use or immediately processed into juices, yogurts, mousses, and ice creams. Rich in dissolved minerals, ripe or fallen fruits attract various insects and butterflies seeking these nutrients.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to pre-order the Very Rare Green Araticú seeds and add a truly exceptional species to your collection or garden! Order now before supplies run out.