How to Grow Barbados Cherry
Malpighia emarginata
Barbados cherry (acerola) is a tropical to subtropical shrub or small tree prized for its vitamin C-rich fruit. It needs full sun, well-drained soil, and frost-free conditions (USDA zones 9-11). Self-fertile but yields improve with bee activity. Water regularly during fruiting; feed three to four times a year. Can fruit multiple times per year in warm climates. Prune to shape after harvest. In cooler regions, grow in a large container and bring indoors for winter.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Three to four times per year with a balanced fertiliser. Mulch with compost to retain moisture.
Watch For
- Aphids
- Whiteflies
- Root-knot nematodes
- Anthracnose
- Cercospora leaf spot
Companions
Comfrey, Marigolds, Basil, Nasturtium
Care Requirements
Light
Full sun for best fruiting
Needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for good fruit production. Tolerates partial shade but yields will be reduced significantly.
Watering
Regular moisture; more during fruiting
Water deeply every few days during active growth and fruiting. Reduce watering in winter dormancy. Well-drained soil is essential to avoid root rot.
Fertilizing
Balanced feed 3-4 times per year
Feed with a balanced fertiliser in early spring, twice in summer, and once in early autumn. Avoid acidic fertilisers. Mulch with compost to improve soil.
Pruning
Shape after harvest or in late winter
Responds well to pruning and can be kept as a compact bush or small tree. Remove crossing and inward-growing branches for airflow. Tolerates hard rejuvenation pruning.
Spacing
4-5m apart; 2-3m for hedges
Free-standing trees need about 4.5m. Can be planted closer (2-3m) for hedging. Container growing keeps plants at 1-2m with regular pruning.
Support
No support needed for established plants
Young trees may benefit from staking for the first year. Established plants are self-supporting. Shelter from strong winds helps prevent fruit drop.
Growing Tips
Encourage pollinators
Self-fertile, but planting near other flowering plants attracts more pollinators and increases fruit set.
Harvest promptly
Fruit is extremely perishable. Pick when fully red and use within a day or freeze immediately.
Shape after harvest
Prune lightly after harvest to maintain shape. Remove inward-growing or crossing branches for airflow.
Frost protection essential
Protect from any frost. Move container plants indoors when temperatures approach 0C.
