Barbados Cherry (Malpighia emarginata)

Vitamin C Powerhouse with Delicious, Tangy Fruit

Common Names: Barbados Cherry, Acerola Cherry, West Indian Cherry, Wild Crapemyrtle
Family: Malpighiaceae
Origin: Caribbean, Central America, Northern South America

Barbados Cherry (Malpighia emarginata), also known as Acerola Cherry or West Indian Cherry, is a tropical and subtropical fruit tree prized for its small, bright red cherries packed with vitamin C. The fruit has a tangy, sweet-tart flavor and is highly valued for its health benefits, particularly its exceptionally high vitamin C content—up to 30 times more than oranges. The tree is a fast-growing, evergreen shrub or small tree that produces fruit throughout the year in warm climates. It’s both a beautiful ornamental addition to the garden and a highly productive fruiting plant, making it a favorite among home gardeners.

Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value

Fruits: The tree produces small, bright red cherries that are juicy and rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and other nutrients. The fruit has a sweet-tart flavor, with the tartness increasing as the fruit ripens. Barbados Cherries are commonly used fresh, juiced, or made into jams, jellies, and desserts.

Foliage: The plant has glossy, green leaves that provide an attractive backdrop to the small, pink flowers that bloom throughout the year. The dense foliage makes it a good choice for hedges or screens in tropical and subtropical gardens.

Growth Habit: Barbados Cherry is a fast-growing, evergreen shrub or small tree that can reach heights of 6-12 feet, though it can be pruned to maintain a smaller size. It thrives in warm climates and produces fruit year-round in optimal conditions.

Culinary and Medicinal Uses

Barbados Cherry is prized for its health benefits, particularly its high vitamin C content, which makes it a popular ingredient in juices, smoothies, and health supplements. The fruit can be eaten fresh, though it is often used in jams, jellies, sauces, and syrups due to its tart flavor. In traditional medicine, the fruit has been used to boost the immune system, treat colds, and promote skin health.