tree of the family Annonaceae (order Magnoliales) that produces an edible fruit 20 cm (8 inches) long and weighing up to 4.5 kg (10 pounds). Native to the American tropics, the tree has been widely introduced in the Old World tropics. Reaching about 8 metres (26 feet), it has broad-ended, oval evergreen leaves about 12.7 cm long. The fruits are oval, spiny, green-skinned, and aromatic. The fibrous white flesh, which combines the flavours of mango and pineapple, is strained to make custards, ice creams, and drinks. See also custard apple.