Surinam cherry
Eugenia uniflora
Red Surinam
About this plant
Eugenia uniflora, commonly called Surinam cherry, is a small evergreen shrub or tree known for its bright red, ribbed fruits that are sweet and tart. It has glossy green leaves that turn reddish in cooler weather. The plant is often grown for its edible fruits and as an ornamental hedge or screen. It is native to South America and has been widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Eugenia
- Family
- Myrtaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Myrtales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay
- Distribution
- Native to South America; cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide including the Caribbean, Florida, and parts of Asia and Africa.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 5 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 20-30 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 5.5-7.0
- Soil type
- well-draining loam, sandy soil
Watering. Water regularly during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter.
Fertilizing. Feed Eugenia uniflora with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer to support healthy growth and fruit production. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can reduce fruiting.
Eugenia uniflora is a fairly hardy shrub that prefers sunny locations and well-drained soil. It tolerates some drought but grows best with regular watering. Watch for leaf spots if air circulation is poor. Pruning helps maintain shape and encourages fruiting.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Glossy green leaves that turn reddish in cool weather, bright red ribbed fruits, small white flowers in spring.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Low spread
Non-toxic to humans and pets; fruits are edible and safe to eat.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Moderate
Eugenia uniflora may cause mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, mainly due to its pollen. People with pollen allergies should avoid close contact during its flowering period. Washing hands after handling the plant can help reduce exposure.
Common problems
Overwatering can cause root rot, while poor air circulation may lead to fungal leaf spots. Insufficient sunlight reduces fruit production.
Uses
Grown for its edible fruits, which can be eaten fresh or used in jams and jellies. Also used as an ornamental hedge or screen plant.
Notes
Prune after fruiting to maintain shape and encourage new growth. Repot young plants every 2-3 years if grown in containers. Protect from frost as it is sensitive to cold temperatures.