Bullock's Heart (Ramphal) Fruit Plant

About Bullock's Heart (Ramphal)

Ramphal (also called Bullock's Heart or Wild Sweetsop), botanically Annona reticulata of the Annonaceae family, is a small deciduous to semi-evergreen fruit plant. Its fruit shares the 'custard apple' common name with relatives like Annona squamosa and Annona cherimola. The flesh ranges from juicy and aromatic to firmer, with a flavour reminiscent of traditional custard.

Growing Conditions

• Sunlight: Minimum 6 hours of direct sunlight; grows well in hot, dry climates and tolerates long dry spells.
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic content.
• Climate: Warm; blooms in spring and summer.

Planting & Spacing

Can be grown in a large pot or directly in the ground; near-zero maintenance similar to custard apple.

Care

• Watering: Water when the top 2-3 inches of soil feel dry; maintain moisture near the root zone, especially during flowering and fruit development.
• Fertilizer: Organic fertilizer monthly for the first year; 2-3 times a year, or specifically during flowering season, once established.
• Pruning: Generally pest-free; apply neem oil for any pest attack. Prune growth arising below the graft union.

Fruiting & Harvest

Edible fruiting typically starts 3-4 years after planting a grafted plant.

Note: This listing ships a young nursery plant, not a fruiting tree. Time to first fruit and yield vary by climate, care, and region - we don't promise a fixed timeline. Seeds and skin contain natural toxins (annonacin) and shouldn't be eaten - only the ripe flesh is meant for eating; keep seeds away from children and pets.