Acerola (Malpighia mexicana)
Care, watering, light and tips for Acerola on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Malpighiaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Acerola
Malpighia mexicana, commonly known as Mexican Acerola, is an evergreen shrub or small tree, valued for its attractive pink or purple flowers and edible red fruits, rich in vitamin C. Its dense, glossy foliage makes it ideal for hedges, borders, or as a specimen plant in tropical and subtropical gardens. It is an ornamental and fruit-bearing plant that adds a vibrant and exotic touch to any landscape.
Native range
Mexico and Central America
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal flowering and fruiting, although it tolerates some partial shade. Watering should be regular, keeping the substrate moist but well-drained, especially during flowering and fruiting; avoid waterlogging. It prefers fertile soils, rich in organic matter, and with good drainage. A common mistake is lack of pruning, which can lead to reduced fruit production and a less attractive shape; perform formative and maintenance pruning to stimulate growth and fruiting.
How to save a dying Acerola
- Warning signs
- Yellow or reddish leaves, easy shedding. Small or no fruits. Stunted growth, dry twigs.
- First aid
- Check drainage and watering (prefers humidity, but not waterlogged). Provide balanced fertilizer and good light.
- What kills it
- Overwatering in heavy soil. Lack of direct sun. Intense cold, it doesn't tolerate frost.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't rotted. It's quite resilient if conditions are corrected.