Order: Magnoliales
Family: Annonaceae
General Overview: Annona glabra, also known as pond apple or alligator apple, is a small to medium-sized tree in the Annonaceae family. It is native to the wetlands of Florida, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.
Morphological Features: The trees attain a height of up to 12 meters, featuring slender, gray trunks and occasionally forming clusters. Their leaves are ovate to oblong, exhibiting an acute tip, measuring 8–15 cm in length and 4–6 cm in width, with a prominent midrib. The upper surface ranges from light to dark green. A distinctive characteristic of A. glabra leaves is their discernible odor, reminiscent of green apples, serving as a distinguishing factor from mangroves. The fruit, varying from oblong to spherical, reaches apple-sized dimensions or larger, with lengths of 7–15 cm and a diameter of up to 9 cm. It drops while still green or transitioning to yellowish during ripening. Dispersal occurs through floating to new locations, and the fruit serves as a food source for various animal species, including wild boar. Reproduction typically commences around the age of two years. A single fruit encompasses 100 or more convex, light yellow-brown seeds, each approximately 1 cm in length. A. glabra flowers have a brief life-span and measure 2–3 cm in diameter. They consist of three outer petals and three inner petals. The inner base of the A. glabra flower contrasts brightly in red against the pale yellow or cream color of the petals. Pollen release takes place in the form of permanent tetrads.
Biological Characteristics: Pond apple has long been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiparasitic properties. Its leaves, bark, and fruit have been used to treat various ailments, including fever, diarrhea, and skin infections. In addition to its medicinal uses, pond apple is also an important tree for wildlife, providing food and shelter for various animals, including alligators and birds. Overall, Annona glabra is a valuable tree with a range of traditional uses and ecological importance. Its large, flavorful fruit and unique appearance also make it a popular ornamental plant.
