Barbados Cherry
$10.00
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Barbados Cherry
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Photos are for illustration purposes only. Plant size and appearance may vary. We carry a range of sizes from starter plants up to 5-gallon containers.
The Barbados Cherry — also known as Acerola or Ceresa — is a fast-growing, evergreen tropical shrub and one of the most nutritionally remarkable fruit plants in the world, holding the distinction of producing one of the highest concentrations of natural vitamin C of any known fruit. Native to the Caribbean and Central America, it bears abundant clusters of small, bright-red cherries with a pleasantly sweet-tart flavor, ripening in multiple flushes throughout the warm season. Its delicate pink flowers are attractive to pollinators, and its dense, lush foliage makes it equally effective as a fruiting hedge, container specimen, or standalone ornamental shrub. Vigorous, productive, and perfectly suited to Florida's subtropical climate, the Barbados Cherry is an exceptional addition to any edible landscape — beautiful, generous, and extraordinarily good for you.
Health benefits
Barbados cherry is regarded as one of the most nutrient-dense fruits in the world, with an extraordinary concentration of vitamins and antioxidants.
- Exceptional vitamin C content: Contains up to 65 times more vitamin C per serving than an orange, making it one of the richest natural sources on earth
- Powerful antioxidants: Rich in carotenoids, flavonoids, and anthocyanins that combat free radicals and support cellular health
- Immune system support: High vitamin C levels strengthen immune response and may reduce the duration and severity of illness
- Skin health: Vitamin C and antioxidants support collagen synthesis, promoting firm, youthful skin and accelerating wound healing
- Energy and metabolism: Contains B vitamins including thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin that support energy production and metabolic function
- Anti-inflammatory: Bioactive compounds in the fruit have demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties in research, supporting joint and cardiovascular health
Plant care
Sunlight: Full sun; at least 6 hours daily for best fruit production and dense growth
Watering: Regular when young; moderate once established — allow soil to dry slightly between waterings
Soil: Well-draining; tolerates sandy soils typical of Florida — avoid waterlogged conditions
Fertilizing: Every 2–3 months with a balanced fruit shrub fertilizer; iron supplements beneficial in alkaline soils
Pruning: Prune lightly after each fruiting flush to encourage new growth and maintain a compact, productive shape
Hardiness: USDA zones 9–11; thrives year-round in Florida's warm climate; protect from frost