Cicoyas

Cicoyas are a group of tropical plants belonging to the genus *Cicaya*, primarily found in Central and South America. The most well-known species, *Cicaya quadricostata*, is commonly referred to as the "cicoya" or "cicayote," though it is also sometimes called the "soursop" or "guanábana" in some regions, particularly in the Caribbean. Despite these names, *Cicaya* species are distinct from the true soursop (*Annona muricata*), which belongs to a different genus.

The cicoya plant is a small to medium-sized tree or shrub, typically reaching heights of 3 to 10 meters. Its leaves are glossy, dark green, and arranged in an alternating pattern along the branches. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, producing fruit that is round to oval in shape, with a spiky, leathery rind. The flesh of the fruit is white or pale yellow, with a sweet and slightly tangy flavor, often described as a mix between pineapple, banana, and citrus. The seeds are large and flat, embedded within the edible pulp.

Cicoyas are cultivated for their fruit, which is consumed fresh or used in beverages, desserts, and traditional medicines. The fruit is rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin C, and contains antioxidants. In some cultures, the leaves and bark are also used in folk remedies for various ailments, though scientific validation of these uses is limited.

The plant thrives in warm, humid climates and requires well-drained soil. It is often grown in home gardens, orchards, and commercial plantations across tropical and subtropical regions. While cicoyas are not as widely recognized as other tropical fruits, they hold cultural significance in their native areas and are valued for both their culinary and potential medicinal properties.