Barbados Cherry Plant - Identifier, How to grow, care & benefits

The Barbados Cherry Plant (Malpighia emarginata), also known as Acerola, West Indian Cherry, or Wild Crapemyrtle, is a tropical to subtropical shrub or small tree that produces bright red, cherry-like fruits. This plant is known for its high vitamin C content and is often used in juices, jams, and health supplements. Native to the Caribbean, Central America, and parts of South America, the Barbados Cherry Plant is prized for its fast growth, ornamental value, and abundant fruiting.

Table of Contents

In this guide, we will explore how to grow, care for, and enjoy the many benefits of the Barbados Cherry Plant.

What is a Barbados Cherry Plant?

The Barbados Cherry Plant is a small, evergreen shrub or tree that produces clusters of bright red fruits resembling cherries. The fruits are highly valued for their tart flavor and are among the richest natural sources of vitamin C, containing much higher concentrations than citrus fruits like oranges. The plant is adaptable to a wide range of tropical and subtropical climates and can be grown as a hedge, ornamental tree, or fruiting shrub in home gardens.

Barbados Cherry Plants are commonly grown for both their ornamental beauty and their nutritional value, making them an ideal addition to edible landscapes and tropical gardens.

Key Facts About Barbados Cherry Plants:

Feature	Details
Botanical Name	Malpighia emarginata (formerly Malpighia glabra)
Common Names	Barbados Cherry, Acerola, West Indian Cherry, Wild Crapemyrtle
Family	Malpighiaceae
Native Region	Caribbean, Central and South America
Growth Habit	Shrub or small tree, bushy, rounded form
Lifespan	Perennial, evergreen
Size	5 to 15 feet tall, similar width
USDA Zones	9 to 11 (can be grown in containers in cooler zones)
Uses	Edible fruit, ornamental, hedging, medicinal

How to Identify a Barbados Cherry Plant

The Barbados Cherry Plant is easily identified by its small, glossy green leaves, delicate pink or light purple flowers, and bright red fruits that resemble cherries. The plant has a bushy, rounded growth habit, with dense foliage and a spreading form that makes it suitable for use as a hedge or small tree in landscapes.

Identification Features of Barbados Cherry:

Feature	Description
Leaves	Glossy green, oblong to oval, 1-3 inches long. Evergreen and alternate on the stems.
Flowers	Small, pink to light purple, with five petals, appearing singly or in clusters. Blooms several times a year.
Fruits	Bright red, round to slightly flattened, 1 inch in diameter, resembling a cherry. The fruit is soft and juicy, with a tart flavor and contains 3 seeds.
Growth Habit	Grows as a bushy shrub or small tree, reaching 5-15 feet in height. Has a rounded, spreading form with dense foliage.

Species Variety

While Malpighia emarginata is the primary species, there are a few related varieties and cultivars:

Acerola ‘Sweet’: A cultivar known for its sweeter fruit, with a lower acidity than the traditional variety.
Acerola ‘Dwarf’: A smaller cultivar ideal for container gardening or small spaces, growing only 3-5 feet tall.
Malpighia glabra: Sometimes considered synonymous with Malpighia emarginata, this species is similar but has slight differences in leaf shape and fruit size.

Barbados Cherry Plant Care Tips: How to Grow Healthy Barbados Cherry

Growing the Barbados Cherry Plant requires attention to its light, water, and soil needs. This plant thrives in warm, tropical conditions and is relatively low-maintenance once established.

Light Requirements

Full Sun: The Barbados Cherry Plant grows best in full sun, needing at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. In partial shade, the plant will still grow but may produce fewer fruits.

Watering Needs

Moderate Watering: Barbados Cherry Plants prefer regular watering, but they are also drought-tolerant once established. Water deeply, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Overwatering should be avoided, as it can cause root rot.
During dry periods, increase watering to maintain consistent moisture.

Soil Preferences

Well-Draining Soil: The plant thrives in well-drained, sandy, or loamy soils that are slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0 to 7.0). While it can tolerate poor soils, the Barbados Cherry Plant performs best in nutrient-rich soil with good drainage.

Temperature and Humidity

Warm Climates: The plant grows best in USDA Zones 9-11, where it is exposed to warm temperatures year-round. Barbados Cherry can tolerate light frost but may suffer damage if exposed to temperatures below 28°F (-2°C) for extended periods.
High Humidity: The plant thrives in areas with high humidity, but it can also adapt to drier conditions if watered regularly.

Fertilizing Barbados Cherry Plants

Balanced Fertilizer: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Organic mulch or compost can also be applied to maintain soil fertility.

Pruning

Pruning for Shape: Regular pruning helps keep the plant bushy and promotes healthy growth. Prune after fruiting to remove dead or damaged branches, improve air circulation, and maintain a desired shape. Light pruning encourages new growth and more fruit production.

Edibility and Toxicity: Can You Eat Barbados Cherry Plants?

The Barbados Cherry is highly valued for its edible fruit, which is rich in vitamin C and other nutrients. The fruit can be used in a variety of ways, from fresh eating to making jams, juices, and even health supplements.

Edible Parts of Barbados Cherry:

Fruits: The acerola cherries are the primary edible part of the plant. The fruit is juicy, with a tart flavor that becomes sweeter as it ripens. It is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and phytonutrients, making it a popular addition to smoothies, juices, and desserts.

Toxicity:

Non-Toxic: The Barbados Cherry Plant is non-toxic to humans and pets, making it safe to grow in gardens where children and animals may interact with the plant.

Safety Tips:

Seeds: While the fruit is edible, the seeds are hard and should be removed before eating to avoid any choking hazards.

Medicinal and Herbal Uses of Barbados Cherry: What Are Its Benefits?

The Barbados Cherry has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, especially in the Caribbean and Central America, where the fruit is consumed to boost the immune system and treat various ailments.

Traditional Medicinal Uses:

Vitamin C Boost: Barbados cherries are one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C, which is known for its immune-boosting properties and its role in skin health, collagen production, and antioxidant support.
Digestive Health: In some cultures, the fruit is used to help treat diarrhea and dysentery due to its astringent properties.

Modern Uses:

Supplements: Acerola is commonly used in dietary supplements for its high vitamin C content. It is also used in health drinks, powders, and extracts for immune support.
Cosmetic Uses: Due to its antioxidant properties, Barbados cherry extract is sometimes included in skincare products aimed at promoting youthful skin and reducing signs of aging.

Precautions:

Allergic Reactions: While rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to acerola. Always start with a small amount if you’re trying it for the first time, especially in supplement form.

How to Plant and Propagate Barbados Cherry

The Barbados Cherry Plant can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or air layering. It is a fast-growing plant and can be propagated successfully in home gardens.

Planting Barbados Cherry from Seeds:

Step 1: Remove seeds from a ripe Barbados cherry, clean them, and allow them to dry for a few days.
Step 2: Sow the seeds in well-draining soil, about 1/2 inch deep, in a pot or seed tray. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Step 3: Place the tray in a warm, sunny spot. Seeds will typically germinate within 3-4 weeks.

Propagation by Cuttings:

Step 1: Take 4-6 inch semi-hardwood cuttings from a healthy plant during the growing season.
Step 2: Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix.
Step 3: Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm, sunny location. Roots should form in 4-6 weeks.

Best Planting Time:

Spring to Early Summer: Plant Barbados Cherry in spring or early summer, when temperatures are warm, and the plant has the full growing season to establish itself.

How to Use Barbados Cherry in Landscaping

The Barbados Cherry Plant is both a functional and decorative addition to gardens. Its glossy foliage, delicate flowers, and vibrant fruits make it an attractive choice for landscaping, while its edible fruit adds value to any home garden.

Aesthetic and Landscaping Benefits:

Ornamental Value: The plant’s small, bright pink flowers and vibrant red fruits make it visually appealing. It can be used as a specimen plant or in hedges for privacy and screening.
Edible Landscaping: The Barbados Cherry is ideal for edible landscaping, providing both beauty and a nutritious fruit harvest.

Design Ideas:

Hedging: Use Barbados Cherry as a hedge or border plant, where its dense foliage can provide privacy and act as a windbreak.
Mixed Gardens: Incorporate Barbados Cherry into a tropical-themed garden, mixing it with other warm-climate plants like banana, papaya, and citrus for a lush, productive landscape.

Pest and Disease Control: Common Problems with Barbados Cherry

The Barbados Cherry Plant is relatively hardy but can be affected by some pests and diseases, especially if grown in less-than-ideal conditions.

Common Pests:

Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can weaken the plant by feeding on new growth. They can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Scale Insects: Scale insects attach themselves to stems and leaves, sucking nutrients and weakening the plant. Use neem oil or horticultural oil to control infestations.
Fruit Flies: These pests may target the ripening fruits. Use fruit fly traps or cover fruits with protective netting.

Pest Control Tips:

Regularly inspect the plant for signs of pests, and use natural insecticides like neem oil to control infestations early.

Common Diseases:

Root Rot: Caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Symptoms include wilting and yellowing leaves. Prevent this by planting in well-draining soil and watering appropriately.
Leaf Spot: Fungal diseases can cause black or brown spots on the leaves, especially in humid conditions. Treat with a fungicide and improve air circulation around the plant.

Solutions:

Improve Drainage: Ensure the plant is grown in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Fungicides: Apply fungicides if leaf spot appears, and prune affected branches to reduce the spread of disease.

Pet Safety: Are Barbados Cherry Plants Safe for Dogs and Cats?

The Barbados Cherry Plant is considered non-toxic to both dogs and cats, making it a safe plant to grow in gardens where pets may roam.

Toxicity to Pets:

Non-Toxic: The fruits and leaves of the Barbados Cherry Plant are non-toxic to pets, so you don’t have to worry if your dog or cat comes into contact with the plant.

What to Do if Your Pet Eats Barbados Cherry:

If your pet consumes some of the fruit, there’s no cause for concern, as the fruit is safe for pets. However, avoid letting pets ingest large quantities of seeds, as they may present a choking hazard.

Pet-Friendly Alternatives:

If you’re looking for other non-toxic plants to grow in a pet-friendly garden, consider:

Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

Where to Buy or Acquire Barbados Cherry Plants

Barbados Cherry Plants are commonly available at nurseries, garden centers, and online retailers. They can be purchased as seeds, young plants, or mature shrubs.

Considerations When Buying Barbados Cherry:

Look for healthy plants with vibrant green leaves and no signs of pests or disease.
Choose a variety that suits your climate and space. Dwarf varieties are great for small gardens or container planting.

Top Places to Purchase Barbados Cherry Plants:

Local Nurseries: Many local nurseries in warm regions carry Barbados Cherry Plants.
Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, Etsy, and specialty plant stores offer Barbados Cherry seeds and young plants.

Price Range:

Seeds: $5 to $10 per packet.
Small Plants: $15 to $30 for potted seedlings.
Mature Plants: $30 to $100, depending on size and variety.

The Barbados Cherry Plant is a versatile and valuable addition to any tropical or subtropical garden. With its bright fruits, ornamental flowers, and high nutritional value, it serves as both a beautiful landscape plant and a functional source of vitamin C-rich fruit. Whether used as a hedge, in edible landscaping, or grown in containers, the Barbados Cherry is sure to enhance the beauty and productivity of your garden for years to come.