Barbados 'Acerola' Cherry Shrub

Easy to Grow Anywhere, Patio or Outdoors

Why the Barbados Cherry?

Imagine high quantities of juicy cherries anywhere in your landscape. With the Barbados Cherry, it’s possible since this variety can grow in a container on your patio or in your garden.

And this variety is known for being particularly healthy, so vitamin C is just another great benefit among many. Reaching a mature height of just 12 feet, the Barbados' convenient size and hardiness place it among the most adaptable cherry bushes available. It's totally diverse, perfect for placing in a container or cropping into a decorative, productive shrub.

Why Fast-Growing-Trees.com is Better

Whether it's grown in the ground among other fruit trees in your garden or in a container on the patio, the Barbados Cherry will provide tons of delicious cherries each growing season and in just one or two years. It’s fast, low-maintenance and versatile because we’ve planted, monitored and shipped it to your door with absolute care, so you get a high-quality tree that’s consistent year after year.

So, we’ve done the hard work, and you’ll reap the delectable rewards. Fresh, home-grown cherries that shine, whether they’re plucked and eaten straight from the tree or used in freshly squeezed juice, jellies, jams or home-baked pies. Order your Barbados Cherry today!

Planting & Care

1. Planting: Start by selecting a spot that is at least ten feet away from other trees. Make sure the spot is in full sun (6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day) and the soil will not retain moisture for any extended period of time.

When you're ready to plant, dig a hole that's twice the width of the root ball and just as deep. Place your shrub, back fill the soil, tamp down and water to settle the roots. Spread a layer of mulch around the surrounding soil to preserve moisture.

If you're container planting, select a pot that's about 18 to 24 inches (15 to 25 gallon pot) and around 20 inches in height. A thin layer of gravel on the bottom of the pot will guarantee good drainage. Plant your shrub, then place near a South-facing window for best results.

Note: This product grows best in well-draining soil. When you receive your plant, you may notice small, white beads or rocks in the soil - this medium is added to increase drainage and keep your plant happy and healthy! 

2. Watering: For the first week, water your tree daily. In the second week, switch to every other day, then reduce to once a week after the first month. Check the soil often during hot weather—your tree may need extra water. In heavy soils, let the soil dry between waterings. Once established (after one to two years), the tree can usually rely on rainfall, needing only a few inches every 10 days. During hot, dry periods, add extra water as needed. The best method is to use a slow-trickling hose at the base for about 30 seconds once a week. If you’re unsure, check the soil 2–3 inches down; if it’s dry, it’s time to water.

3. Pruning: Prune the shrub in the late fall after harvesting to form it into a desired shape. Damaged, diseased or dead branches can be removed at any time. Be sure to sterilize your cutting tool(s) with rubbing alcohol to ensure a nice, clean cut.

4. Fertilizing: Feed the Barbados with a time-released 8-3-9 fertilizer formula when you begin to see growth starting on the shrub in the spring. Follow the application instructions on the fertilizer package. The potted Barbados will benefit from a bi-yearly feeding with a mineral fertilizer with a gradual release of nutrients.

FAQs

Can you eat Barbados Cherries?

 Yes, the Barbados Cherry is known for its unique, sweet and tart taste. They can be enjoyed cooked or eaten straight off the shrub.

How long does it take for the Barbados Cherry to fruit?

The Barbados Cherry needs to be around 5 years old to produce fruit or around 5 ft. tall. The production is largely dependent upon the environment and if the needs are being met and will take around 23 days from flower to fruit.

How fast does a Barbados Cherry Shrub grow?

The Barbados Cherry has a fast growth rate, so expect to maintain your ideal size with yearly pruning and around 2 ft. or more of growth in ideal conditions.