Native & adapted

Surinam cherry

Eugenia uniflora

Also known as Pitanga · Brazilian cherry · Cayenne cherry

A fast, bushy shrub with ribbed red to near-black fruit that is sweet and resinous. A heavy producer and a handsome edible hedge.

EdibleFruitingHedgeEvergreenContainer friendly

Landscape layersUnderstory · Hedging

Mature size8–15 ft tall and 6–10 ft wide; easy to hold at 5–6 ft

Climate fitUrban core · USDA 9b–10a · Valley suburbs · USDA 9a–9b

Plant spacing5–6 ft apart for a hedge

FrostMature plants survive brief dips to about 26°F.

Special categoriesEDIBLE

Hardiness guidanceUSDA 9b–11; mature plants take brief dips to about 26°F

Winter chillNone

Typical harvestMainly spring, with a smaller crop in fall.

Before you plant

These conditions determine whether it will thrive.

Soil chemistry

Tolerates soil from about pH 5.5 to 7.5; add compost and soil sulfur in Phoenix.

Required microclimatePlacement is part of the growing system.

East side of a wall, or under the edge of a larger tree.

Right plant, right place

Fruits in 2 to 3 years. Prunes well into a hedge or a small tree.

Best regional fit: Urban core · USDA 9b–10a, Valley suburbs · USDA 9a–9b.

Light

Morning sun with afternoon shade in summer.

Water

Moderate. Deep water once or twice a week in summer.

Fruit set

Self-fertile.

Harvest

Fresh when fully dark red, or in jams and sauces. Underripe fruit tastes of resin.

Planting & stewardship