Malpighia emarginata, ‘Barbados Cherry’ are an easy to grow and care for, tropical bonsai. Barbados Cherry are popular because they produce small glossy leaves, pretty pink flowers, and bright red fruit, and they can be grown Indoors in bright light or outdoors in warm climates.
Location
The Barbados Cherry can be grown outdoors in full sun during the warmer months. If kept indoors, it will need very bright light, ideally several hours of direct sun or strong supplemental lighting. An indoor Barbados Cherry benefits from being placed outside during the warm summer months once night temperatures are reliably mild.
Temperature
Barbados Cherry is a tropical evergreen. It does not tolerate frost. If outdoor temperatures drop below about 10°C (50°F), protect the tree and bring it into a bright, warm spot. Indoors for winter, keep it in a warm room with good light and away from cold drafts; with sufficient light it should hold foliage year round.
Watering
Barbados Cherry should be watered when needed; frequency will depend on warmth, light, and humidity. Soil should be kept evenly moist but never waterlogged. Touch the soil to determine if the tree needs watering; allow the top surface to begin to dry slightly before watering thoroughly.
Pruning
Left to grow, Barbados Cherry will thicken and extend quickly. It responds well to regular trimming, which produces dense ramification, and it can bud back on older wood after pruning. Pinch or cut back new shoots during the growing season to maintain shape. Pruning of larger branches is best done in late spring to early summer in warm conditions.
Repotting
Repot when needed. Younger Barbados Cherry should be checked every one to two years; older and larger specimens can have longer intervals between repotting. Late spring to early summer is the best time for repotting, and the soil should be well-drained and slightly acidic to neutral.
Feeding
Feed every two weeks during the growing season (always read the instructions). A balanced fertiliser works well, reduce feeding in lower light or cooler periods.
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Please Note: The picture is for guidance only. It is not generally possible to send the tree in the picture. Please note that measurements given are approximate not exact. Measurements given are from the bottom of the pot to the top of the tree, the pot colour may also vary from the picture. Due to their nature trees grow and whilst in our care may need pruning, this means the tree that you receive may differ in size to that given in the description. The appearance of the tree may vary depending on the season.
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