Description
Eugenia cerasiflora (also called Pitanga, Surinam Cherry, and West Indian Cherry, among many other common names) is a small evergreen tree or shrub native to the Caribbean, South America, and Florida. It has glossy, leathery leaves and white flowers that produce edible red fruit. It is found in tropical and subtropical forests, as well as disturbed areas.
Uses & Benefits
Eugenia cerasiflora is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. It is also used in traditional medicine for treating fever, headaches, and stomach ailments.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Eugenia cerasiflora has white flowers with five petals and yellow centers. The seeds are small and black, and the seedlings have small, oval-shaped leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Eugenia cerasiflora is a shrub that can be propagated from seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in a well-drained soil mix and kept moist until germination. Cuttings should be taken from semi-hardwood and treated with a rooting hormone before being placed in a well-drained soil mix. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil.