Also known as Acerola · Barbados Cherry · Cherry
Malpighia glabra, wild crapemyrtle, is a flowering shrub native to tropical Americas, known for its attractive pink to red flowers and edible fruit.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-29°C; protect from frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
The fruits are highly edible and a rich source of Vitamin C. Other parts of the plant are generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets, as confirmed by reputable sources like the ASPCA.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the establishment phase. Reduce watering in cooler months, allowing the top layer of soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins to shape the plant and remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Light pruning can also be done after flowering to maintain size and encourage bushier growth. Remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Propagate from softwood cuttings taken in spring or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Root cuttings in a well-draining potting mix, keeping them consistently moist and warm.
Seed propagation is also possible but may result in less predictable traits and slower growth.
Repot young plants every 1-2 years in spring, or when root-bound. Mature plants can be repotted less frequently, every 2-3 years. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one, ensuring adequate drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Wild Crapemyrtle (Malpighia glabra)
Where Wild Crapemyrtle (Malpighia glabra) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Malpighiaceae |
| Genus | Malpighia |
| Species | Malpighia glabra |
Similar in genus Malpighia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
