Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering in cooler months.
Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions, especially during dormancy periods.
Malpighia aquifolia is a spiny shrub native to the Caribbean and South America, featuring holly-like leaves and small, star-shaped flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-25°C. Protect from frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed regularly during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering in cooler months.
Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions, especially during dormancy periods.
Prune lightly after flowering to shape the plant and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Pruning can also be done to control size and maintain a desired form.
Use clean, sharp pruning tools.
Propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer or early autumn. Dip cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix.
Keep moist and warm in a bright location, ideally with bottom heat, until roots form.
Repot every 2-3 years in spring, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a slightly larger pot with a good quality, well-draining potting mix. Handle the root ball gently to minimize disturbance.
Water thoroughly after repotting.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Malpighia Aquifolia (Malpighia aquifolia)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Malpighiaceae |
| Genus | Malpighia |
| Species | Malpighia aquifolia |
Similar in genus Malpighia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
