Calabur tree
Muntingia calabura · Muntingiaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around calabur tree and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- Year-round (tropical climate)
- Adult size
- 6 to 10 m in height
- Growth
- Very fast
- Hardiness
- Tropical (min. 10–15 °C)
- Origin
- Central America and the Caribbean
- Soil type
- Well-draining, fertile
Care
Light exposure
The Jamaican cherry thrives in full sun for optimal fruiting, but tolerates partial shade. Place it in a location sheltered from strong winds. In temperate climates, reserve it for container or heated greenhouse cultivation.
Watering
Water regularly and generously during the growing season, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in winter or during the dry season. Ensure good drainage to prevent root suffocation.
Soil and substrate
Prefer rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. A mix of potting soil, compost, and sand promotes growth. In containers, use quality substrate for fruiting plants.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced fertilizer or one slightly high in potassium monthly during the growing period. Reduce in winter. An annual application of well-decomposed compost is sufficient in open ground.
Pruning and training
Little pruning is necessary in tropical climates. Remove dead wood or poorly oriented branches to open up the canopy. Pinch young plants to encourage branching and a compact shape.
Pests and diseases
In humid climates, watch for scale insects and whiteflies. Reduce stagnant humidity to prevent fungal issues. Good drainage and air circulation are usually sufficient under optimal conditions.
Did you know?
The Jamaican cherry goes by various common names depending on the region: "calabur," "white jambol," or "cherry of Jamaica." Its small sweet berries are greatly enjoyed by children in tropical America, where the tree spreads readily by birds and has naturalized in many coastal and island zones.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- SageSalvia officinalis
- BoxwoodBuxus sempervirens
- Pedunculate oakQuercus robur
- GrapevineVitis vinifera
- CamelliaCamellia japonica
- Japanese mapleAcer palmatum
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.