Plant Database
Barbados Cherry
Malpighia punicifolia
The Barbados Cherry, or Acerola, is a nutritional powerhouse disguised as a charming ornamental shrub. This prolific plant is celebrated as one of the world's richest natural sources of Vitamin C, containing up to 65 times more than an orange. It produces a continuous flush of small, bright red, three-lobed fruits that are juicy and tart-sweet, reminiscent of a tart apple or cherry. Incredibly easy to grow, drought-tolerant, and ever-blooming, it's the perfect plant for a healthy snack straight from the garden, superb juices, or nutrient-packed preserves.
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Exceptionally high in Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and antioxidants.
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Produces small, bright red, cherry-like fruits with juicy, tart flesh.
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A long, continuous flowering and fruiting season in warm weather, often bearing multiple crops per year.
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An easy-care, drought-tolerant shrub that thrives with minimal attention once established.
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Can be grown as a dense hedge, specimen shrub, or in a large container.
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Self-pollinating and begins fruiting at a very young age.
Flavor Profile:
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Flavor: Pleasantly tart and sweet, similar to a tart apple or cranberry, with a distinct tanginess.
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Texture: Juicy and soft when fully ripe.
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Best Uses: Best for processing into incredibly healthy juices, smoothies, jams, and syrupswhere its tartness is balanced. Can be eaten fresh when fully ripe (deep red and soft).