Water
Water regularly, allowing the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, especially during cooler months. Reduce watering frequency in winter.
Also known as Myrtle Laurel Cherry · West Indies Cherry
West Indian Cherry (Prunus myrtifolia) is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Americas, producing small, tart red fruits rich in Vitamin C.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, ensure good drainage.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-25°C. Protect from frost; bring indoors if temperatures drop below 10°C.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during the growing season with a balanced liquid 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 |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, allowing the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, especially during cooler months. Reduce watering frequency in winter.
Prune to maintain shape and size, and to remove dead or crossing branches. Light pruning can be done after flowering to encourage bushier growth. Avoid heavy pruning which can stress the plant.
Propagate from seeds, which require stratification, or from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and kept in a humid environment.
Repot young plants annually in spring. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years or when root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix and a slightly larger pot.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of West Indian Cherry (Prunus myrtifolia)
Where West Indian Cherry (Prunus myrtifolia) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Prunus |
| Species | Prunus myrtifolia |
Similar in genus Prunus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data