Surinam cherry
eugenia uniflora
Also known as: ["Brazilian cherry","Cerisier","Murray cherry"]
Overview
A small tree or shrub native to South America, known for its bright red, tart fruits and glossy foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Genus: | Eugenia |
| Botanical Name: | Eugenia uniflora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm climates, or as a container plant in cooler regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if indoor air is very dry
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix; cactus or succulent mix amended with organic matter works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins; light pruning can be done after fruiting if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if the plant is overgrown, otherwise focus on shaping
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, though some afternoon shade is beneficial in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to direct sun gradually over 1–2 weeks; protect from harsh midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light indoors; provide dappled shade in peak summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in cooler months.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 5.5–6.5.
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures, 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 30°F (-1°C) but thrives in stable warmth.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength to avoid burn; fertilize after watering to prevent root shock; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least 2 nodes.
- Remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), indirect light, and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rate.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth indicates establishment, which can take 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic bag or propagator for humidity.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, remove dead or diseased wood, and manage fruit production.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune at the right time, remove dead/diseased wood, shape the plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh well-draining soil, water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose right pot size, prepare new soil, trim roots if needed, water after repotting, place in shade for a few days.
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 to reach the root ball, allow excess water to drain away, water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost or peat moss for fertility and acidity; ensure good aeration by avoiding compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, yellowing, or browning leaf edges; stunted growth in extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback; prolonged cold can damage roots and lead to fungal infections.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location or indoors during frost; use frost cloth or mulch to insulate roots; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity with misting, water deeply but avoid waterlogging, ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, use diluted fertilizer, water before feeding, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild toxicity if they ingest large amounts of the berries, which contain hydrogen cyanide. The physiological impact is primarily gastrointestinal.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild toxicity if they consume large quantities of the berries due to the presence of hydrogen cyanide. The effects are typically limited to gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Eugenia uniflora, commonly known as Surinam cherry, contain small amounts of hydrogen cyanide, which can cause mild toxicity if consumed in large quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to gastrointestinal discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are the fruits of Eugenia uniflora edible?
A: Yes, the fruits are edible and often used in jams, jellies, and desserts.
Q: How often should I water Eugenia uniflora?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Eugenia uniflora require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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