Requires a reliable cold period to persist. In most of Florida it can be treated as an annual in gardens. Listed as Endangered by the State of Florida , Tolerance, Not salt tolerant of inundation by salty or brackish water. Some tolerance to salty wind but not direct salt spray. , Considertions, The further south you go, the more short-lived this species gets.  Except in extreme north Florida, treat as an annual or at least don't assume that i , Wildlife, Small birds and small mammals consume the seed. , Habitat, Upland glades, openings in upland mixed forests on calcareous soils. , Did You Know?, Showy flowers Attracts many pollinators, especially bees.

In Australia, pond apple is a Weed of National Significance. It is regarded as one of the worst weeds in Australia because of invasiveness, potential , Tolerance, Tolerant of frequent or regular inundation (usually areas with tidal inundation) High. Can tolerate significant and ongoing amounts of salty wind and , Considertions, Fruit litter may be a problem in in small landscapes. , Wildlife, Bird nesting area and food source.  Fruit used by mammals such as raccoons. , Habitat, Swamps and sloughs , Did You Know?, Showy flowers, Interesting foliage, Hurricane wind resistance Larval food source for Giant sphinx (Cocytius antaeus). Pollinated by beetles.

This species is endangered in Florida. Please acquire only through reputable nurserymen. To maintain the genetic integrity of the species, please use , Tolerance, Tolerant of occasional/brief inundation such as can occur in storm surges. Moderate. Tolerant of salty wind and may get some salt spray. Exposure t , Habitat, Tropical rockland hammock. , Did You Know?, Interesting bark, Interesting foliage, Hurricane wind resistance Attracts bees.