Flora of the Southeastern United States

Annona glabra Linnaeus. Common name: Pond-apple. Habitat: Swamps, wet hammocks, other seasonally ponded wetlands, sloughs and strands. Distribution: C. and s. FL; Mexico, Central America, and South America; West Indies.

ID notes: This species is a dominant shrub or understory tree in the deepest portions of strands, ponds, and sloughs in south Florida. Its short stature and conspicuously buttressed trunks make it a unique member of our flora.

Origin/Endemic status: Native

Other Comments: In peak dry season conditions, water levels in south Florida pond apple sloughs reach their lowest levels, formerly submerged areas becoming accessible to foot traffic. These same areas sit under 3-4+ feet of standing water in the peak of the wet season, their limbs enveloped in lush epiphytic ferns and orchids, their thickened trunks nestled in the darkened tannin-rich water below. It is a site to behold for those brave enough to venture within.

Synonymy ⓘ: = Bah, Fl2, FNA3, K4, Mex, NS, POWO, S, WH3; = Anona glabra L. — S13, orthographic variant. Basionym: Annona glabra L. 1753

Links to other floras: = Annona glabra - FNA3

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Wetland Indicator Status:

• Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain: OBL

Heliophily ⓘ: 4