Soursop

Soursop is a small, semi-deciduous tree 4–8 m tall; its simple oval leaves are glossy above and aromatic when crushed. Solitary greenish-yellow flowers grow on the trunk or old branches. The irregular heart-shaped fruit is 15–30 cm long and 1–5 kg, with dark-green skin covered in soft, curved spines; the soft white flesh is juicy with a distinctive sweet-tart aroma and many shiny black seeds.

Soursop originated in the West Indies and Central America and is grown throughout the tropics; in Vietnam it is cultivated widely in the south. The ripe fruit is eaten fresh or blended into smoothies, ice cream, jam and juice; dried leaves are brewed as a folk tea. Note that the seeds and other parts contain annonacin, and excessive use may be unsafe — professional advice is recommended.