Strawberry Tree, Yellow (Muntingia calabura)
Sweet and Fast-Growing Tropical Fruit
Botanical Name: Muntingia calabura
Common Names: Yellow Strawberry Tree, Jamaican Cherry, Panama Berry, Cotton Candy Berry, Bajelly Tree, Singapore Cherry, Sabah Cherry, Panama Cherry, Jam Tree, Calabura
Family: Muntingiaceae
Origin: Tropical Americas (Mexico, Central America)
The Yellow Strawberry Tree (Muntingia calabura) is a fast-growing, fruit-bearing tree known for producing small, sweet, yellow berries that taste like cotton candy or cereal milk. (The Red varieties has a flavor more reminiscent of buttered popcorn.) This versatile and hardy tropical tree is a favorite in home gardens due to its rapid growth, abundant fruit production, and ability to thrive in various climates. The tree produces small, yellow fruits that can be enjoyed fresh off the tree or used in jams, desserts, and beverages. Its adaptability to a range of soils and climates makes it an excellent addition to tropical and subtropical gardens.
Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value
Fruits: The Yellow Strawberry Tree produces small, round, yellow berries that are about the size of a cherry. The fruits are sweet with a light, cotton-candy-like flavor, making them perfect for fresh eating or adding to jams, pies, and other desserts. The berries are also rich in vitamins C and A, as well as antioxidants, providing a nutritious snack that supports immune health and overall wellness.
Foliage: The tree features slender, drooping branches with soft, serrated leaves that create a lush canopy. The leaves are light green, providing a nice contrast to the vibrant yellow fruit.
Growth Habit: The Yellow Strawberry Tree is a fast-growing, evergreen tree that can reach up to 20-30 feet tall in ideal conditions. It is a hardy and drought-tolerant tree that begins fruiting as early as 1-2 years after planting.
Quick Care Guide
| Plant Type: | Perennial Evergreen Fruit Tree |
| Harvest Season: | Year-round in warm climates, most heavy production in the summer. |
| Mature Size: | 20-30 feet tall, 20-25 feet wide |
| Soil & Moisture: | Well-draining, fertile soil; drought-tolerant but benefits from moderate watering |
| Light Requirements: | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Growth Rate: | Very Fast |
| Self-fertile: | Yes |
| Zone Hardiness: | Outdoors 9-11; Patio/Greenhouse 4+; Grown in containers indoors in cooler zones |
| Propagation: | Grown from seeds. Our medium Pot size fruits within 1-2 years. Our X-Large pot sizes are capable of fruiting now. |
Growing Guide for Yellow Strawberry Tree
Climate and Soil Requirements
- Climate: The Yellow Strawberry Tree thrives in warm, tropical and subtropical climates and is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 9-11. It is highly adaptable and can tolerate drought and poor soils but grows best in warm, sunny conditions. In cooler regions, it can be grown in containers and brought indoors during winter.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining, fertile soil but is highly adaptable and can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy and rocky soils. It does well in slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.0).
Planting
- Location: Choose a sunny location that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. Full sun promotes rapid growth and abundant fruiting.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil and mix in compost or organic matter to improve fertility and drainage.
- Planting Time: Plant in the spring or summer when temperatures are warm.
- Spacing: Space trees 20-25 feet apart to allow for their wide, spreading growth habit.
Watering
- Drought Tolerant: Although the tree is drought-tolerant, it benefits from regular watering, especially during fruiting. Water deeply once the top 1-2 inches of soil has dried out. Avoid waterlogging the soil, as the tree prefers well-drained conditions.
Sunlight and Fertilizing
- Full Sun: Provide the tree with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruit production.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 6-8 weeks during the growing season to support healthy growth. Organic compost can also be added to improve soil fertility.
Pruning and Maintenance
- Low Maintenance: The Yellow Strawberry Tree requires minimal pruning. Prune away any dead or damaged branches to maintain its shape and encourage healthy growth.
- Container Growing: If growing in a container, ensure the pot has good drainage and use a well-draining potting mix. Container-grown trees may need more frequent watering.
Pest and Disease Management
- Common Pests: The tree is relatively pest-resistant but may attract fruit flies or aphids. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage infestations.
- Diseases: The Yellow Strawberry Tree is generally disease-resistant but ensure good drainage to avoid root rot.
Harvesting Yellow Strawberry Tree Fruit
When to Harvest:
- The fruits are ready to harvest when they turn bright yellow and are slightly soft to the touch. The berries ripen year-round in warm climates and can be picked regularly as they mature. The tree begins producing fruit within 1-2 years after planting.
How to Use:
- The sweet berries can be eaten fresh, used in jams, jellies, pies, or added to fruit salads. They can also be blended into beverages or used to make syrups.
