acerola
Malpighia emarginata
USDA zones10 to 11
SunNeeds full sun (6+ hours)
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size6 to 10 feet tall10 to 15 feet wide
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn, winter
- Bloom color
- Pink
- Soil types
- Sand, loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, neutral
Garden uses
Notes
Acerola (Malpighia emarginata) is a fruit for containers, borders, and food gardens. It grows outdoors year-round in USDA zone 10 and warmer, down to about 30°F (-1°C). In colder areas, grow it as a houseplant or bring it indoors for winter. This plant likes full sun and average to moist, sandy or loamy soil. It is grown for fresh eating, juice, baking, and preserves. The tart, bright red fruits are fragile, so pick them gently and often and eat them quickly.
Pairs well with Calamondin, Lemon verbena, Rosemary, and Thai basil.