Black Surinam Cherry – Premium Live Grafted - Keyfarm Wayanad

The Black Surinam Cherry (Eugenia uniflora), also known as Pitanga or Brazilian Cherry, is a remarkably attractive fruit-bearing shrub or small tree. Its glossy, deep green leaves provide a lush backdrop for the unique, ribbed, cherry-like fruits that mature from green to a striking black-red, offering both ornamental beauty and edible delights. Native to the tropical and subtropical regions of South America, this versatile plant is cherished for its vigorous growth and distinctive flavor profile.

🌟 Overview

• Botanical Name: Eugenia uniflora
• Common Name: Black Surinam Cherry, Pitanga, Brazilian Cherry
• Plant Type: Evergreen shrub or small tree, grafted for faster fruiting
• Fruit: Ribbed, dark red to black, sweet-tart flavor, rich in Vitamin C
• Uses: Edible fruit, ornamental garden specimen, ideal for hedges or containers

☀️ Light Requirements

• Thrives in full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight daily) for optimal fruit production.
• Can tolerate partial shade, but fruiting may be less abundant.
• Ideal for sunny balconies, patios, or well-lit garden spots.

💧 Water Requirements

• Requires consistent moisture, especially during flowering and fruiting periods and in warm weather.
• Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
• Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot; avoid waterlogging.
• Reduce watering frequency slightly in cooler or dormant months.

📏 Size & Growth

• Typically grows 6-15 feet tall in cultivation but can be easily pruned to maintain a desired size and shape.
• Exhibits a medium to fast growth rate under optimal growing conditions.
• Produces fruit multiple times a year in suitable warm climates, often within 1-2 years of grafting.

🌍 Origin & Characteristics

• Native to the tropical regions of South America, predominantly found in Brazil, Uruguay, and Paraguay.
• Known for its highly aromatic foliage when crushed and distinctively ribbed fruits.
• The 'Black' variety is especially prized for its typically sweeter flavor profile compared to the more common red varieties.
• An excellent choice for tropical and subtropical gardens.

📇 Toxicity & Safety Warning

• The ripe fruits of the Black Surinam Cherry are edible and widely enjoyed by humans.
• However, the seeds within the fruit and the leaves of the plant are considered mildly toxic if ingested in large quantities.
• It is advisable to keep the plant out of reach of pets who might chew on foliage or ingest seeds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take for a grafted Black Surinam Cherry to fruit?
A: Grafted plants typically fruit much faster than seed-grown ones, often within 1-2 years after planting, given proper care and environmental conditions.

Q: Can I grow the Black Surinam Cherry in a pot?
A: Yes, it adapts very well to container growing. Choose a large pot with excellent drainage and ensure it receives adequate sunlight and water for best results.

Q: What kind of soil does it prefer?
A: This plant thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). A good quality potting mix enriched with organic matter works best for container-grown specimens.