Origin of the Plant Malpighia infestissima
Malpighia infestissima is commonly known as Barbados Cherry or Acerola. It is a small tropical fruit tree that is native to the West Indies and South America. The plant has also been introduced in other warm regions across the world, including parts of Asia, Africa, and Australia.
General Appearance
The Barbados Cherry plant can grow up to 20-feet in height and is usually multi-branched. The tree possesses purple or green leaves that are oval-shaped, glossy, and have sharp edges. It produces small white or pink flowers that bloom from spring to summer. The tree then bears small bright-red cherries that usually breaks off the stem easily when ripe and has thin, smooth, and juicy flesh.
Common Names
The plant is commonly called Barbados Cherry, West Indies Cherry, Wild Crepe Myrtle, and Acerola.
Uses of Malpighia infestissima auct. non L.C. Rich. ex Niedenzu
The fruit of the Malpighia infestissima plant is commonly used for medicinal and culinary purposes. It is rich in vitamin C and other nutrients, and this makes it a popular ingredient in various dietary supplements and beverages. The fruit can be eaten raw or cooked and is often used to make jams, jellies, and other tasty treats. Medicinally, the plant and its fruit have been used as an antioxidant, immune booster, and treatment for various ailments, including asthma and diarrhea.
Light Requirements
Malpighia infestissima is a tropical plant that thrives well in full sunlight. Therefore, it needs to be grown in an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. However, if it's grown in a hot climate, partial shade should be provided to prevent the leaves from scorching.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires warm to hot temperatures to grow well. The optimal temperature range is between 60 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature falls below this range, the plant growth will slow down, and if it goes beyond 90 degrees Fahrenheit, it may cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Malpighia infestissima grows well in well-drained, acidic soils. The soil should have a pH range of between 4.5 to 5.5. The plant thrives when grown in soils that are deep, rich in organic matter, and well-drained. Soggy soils should be avoided as they will lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Malpighia infestissima is typically grown in warm climates with plenty of sunlight. It prefers well-draining soils and does best in slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. The plant can tolerate some drought, but consistent watering is needed for ideal growth. The shrub is propagated through seed or cutting.
Watering Needs
Malpighia infestissima requires consistent watering during the growing season. In areas with little rainfall, it may need to be watered more frequently, up to twice a week. Care should be taken not to overwater, as this can cause root rot. During the winter months, watering should be reduced to allow the plant to enter dormancy.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization is important for optimal growth and fruit production. A balanced fertilizer with a N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 should be applied every six to eight weeks during the growing season. Organic fertilizers can also be used, such as compost or aged manure.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to control the shape and size of the plant and to encourage fruit production. The best time to prune is in the winter or early spring while the plant is dormant. Dead or damaged branches should be removed, and the overall size of the shrub can be reduced by cutting back the outer branches. Pinching back the tips of the branches can also encourage bushier growth and more fruit production.
Propagation of Malpighia infestissima
Malpighia infestissima auct. non L.C. Rich. ex Niedenzu, commonly referred to as the "Brazilian cherry," is a tropical fruit-bearing plant known for its high vitamin C content. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Malpighia infestissima are readily available and can be used to propagate new plants. Before sowing, the seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat. Plant the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm, bright spot. Germination will occur in 2-4 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots once they have developed a few true leaves.
Cuttings Propagation
Malpighia infestissima can also be propagated through softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings. Take 6-8 inch cuttings from a healthy plant and remove the bottom leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a warm, bright spot. After a few weeks, roots should start to appear, and the cutting can then be transplanted into a larger pot or outside.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is another common method of propagating Malpighia infestissima. This method involves joining a scion from a desirable variety to a rootstock of a different plant. This is done by making a slanting cut on both the scion and rootstock, then fitting them together and securing them with grafting tape. After a few weeks, the graft should have knitted together, and the tape can be removed. Grafting can allow for quicker fruiting and better disease resistance.
Disease and Pest Management for Malpighia infestissima
Malpighia infestissima, commonly known as the prickly or wild cherry, is a species of flowering plant that is often utilized for medicinal and ornamental purposes. Although it is a relatively hardy plant, it can still fall prey to various diseases and pests that can compromise its health and growth.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases affecting Malpighia infestissima is anthracnose, a fungal infection that causes the leaves and fruits to develop dark spots or lesions. To manage this disease, it is important to remove and destroy any infected plant material promptly to prevent its spread. Additionally, the application of a fungicidal spray can help in controlling the anthracnose fungus.
Another fungal disease that can infect Malpighia infestissima is powdery mildew, which appears as a white or grey powdery substance on the leaves. This disease thrives in warm and humid conditions and can cause leaf drop and stunted growth. To manage powdery mildew, it is crucial to maintain good air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering. Fungicidal sprays containing sulfur or potassium bicarbonate can also be used to control powdery mildew.
Common Pests
One of the most destructive pests that can infest Malpighia infestissima is the Caribbean fruit fly, which lays its eggs on the fruits of the plant. The larvae that hatch from these eggs feed on the fruit flesh, causing it to rot and drop prematurely. To manage this pest, it is advisable to use physical barriers such as fine mesh nets to prevent the adult flies from accessing the fruits. Chemical control measures such as bait sprays and pheromone traps can also be used to suppress the populations of Caribbean fruit flies.
Another pest that can affect Malpighia infestissima is the two-spotted spider mite. These tiny pests suck sap from the leaves, causing them to yellow and dry out. Infestations by spidermites can reduce the plant's overall vigor and productivity. To manage this pest, regular spraying with water can help to keep their populations in check. In severe infestations, the application of insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can be used to control the two-spotted spider mite.
By paying attention to the common diseases and pests that affect Malpighia infestissima and implementing effective control measures, gardeners can ensure that this valuable plant species thrives in their garden or orchard.
