It is a tropical tree which makes a fine addition to a South Florida gardener's backyard fruit "orchard." A native of the West Indies, it is a small, attractive, fast-growing tree that won't reach much more than 12 feet, although it can be kept clipped back to shrub size.
It's leaves are small and evergreen, borne densely on rather brittle branches. The branches of some varieties droop; others are quite upright.
The bright pink, five-petaled flowers are small but pretty, with the trees blooming mainly from April through October although some blossoms appear year around. Fruiting is from May to November, but again, a few cherries may be picked now and then throughout the winter.
Barbados cherry, or acerola, is a large, bushy shrub or small tree that reaches mature heights of about 12 feet (3.5 m.). This attractive shrub produces thick, bright green leaves. Small, pinkish-lavender flowers bloom from spring to fall, and may pop up year round in warmer climates – usually after irrigation or a rainfall.
Harvest Barbados cherries when the fruit is fully ripe. Wear gloves, though, because the fuzz on the stems and leaves can irritate the skin, especially when the tree is young.
