🍒 Barbados cherry (Acerola - Malpighia)

Fruits ultra-rich in vitamin C, delicate pink blossom.

Acerola produces small red cherries containing 30 times more vitamin C than an orange.

☀️ Light

Full sun. Minimum 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day for good flowering and fruiting.

💧 Watering

Water regularly. Keep the soil slightly moist. Reduce watering in winter but do not allow it to dry out completely.

🌡️ Temperature

Ideal: 20-30°C. Minimum: 10°C. Sensitive to frost. Bring indoors as soon as temperatures drop below 12°C.

🌱 Fertilization

Apply a balanced fertilizer every 3-4 weeks in spring and summer. A fertilizer for fruit trees or citrus trees is recommended.

🪴 Repotting

Every 2 years in spring. Well-draining, slightly acidic potting soil. Good drainage is essential.

✂️ Size

Prune lightly after fruiting to maintain a compact shape and encourage branching.

🐛 Common problems

• Aphids: Treat with insecticidal soap
• Fruit drop: Water stress or lack of light
• Yellow leaves: Excess water or deficiency

🍒 Fruiting

Can produce fruit from 2-3 years old. Delicate pink flowers followed by small, tart red cherries. Harvest quickly as the fruit does not keep well.

Tropico-Québec tip: Acerola fruits are very fragile. Consume them fresh or freeze them immediately after harvesting.