Barbados cherry
malpighia emarginata
Also known as: ["acerola","wild crepemyrtle","West Indian cherry"]
Overview
A small, evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Caribbean and Central America, known for its highly nutritious, vitamin C-rich fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Malpighiaceae |
| Genus: | Malpighia |
| Botanical Name: | Malpighia emarginata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm climates, or indoor pot in bright, sunny location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun, protect from intense afternoon rays, adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); cooler temperatures (down to 50°F or 10°C) in winter promote dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; adjust watering in extreme heat/cold.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring/summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, cut just above leaf nodes, thin out crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, encourage bushier growth, remove dead/diseased parts, improve air circulation.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune dead/diseased parts, shape evenly, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes growth and prevents root-bound issues.
Checklist
Check root boundness, prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh soil, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure water penetrates deeply, allow excess to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, adjust pH with peat moss or lime if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback if exposed to prolonged cold below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid drafts, protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering if exposed to excessive heat above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMalpighia emarginata is not considered toxic to cats. The fruit is safe for consumption and can provide nutritional benefits, especially vitamin C.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicMalpighia emarginata is not considered toxic to dogs. The fruit is safe for consumption and can be a source of vitamins, particularly vitamin C.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicMalpighia emarginata, commonly known as Barbados cherry or acerola, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The fruit is rich in vitamin C and is often consumed for its nutritional benefits.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Barbados cherry safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the health benefits of Barbados cherry?
A: It is exceptionally high in vitamin C and antioxidants, often used to boost immune health.
Q: How should Barbados cherry be cared for?
A: It prefers full sun, well-drained soil, and regular watering, though it can tolerate short periods of drought.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malpighiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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