Malpighia glabra, commonly known as Barbados Cherry, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to tropical and subtropical regions, including Texas, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and Northern South America. It typically grows to a height and width of up to 12 feet (4 meters), with a dense, bushy form. The plant thrives in a variety of habitats, including dry deciduous forests, forest edges, and open, sunny areas. The leaves are glossy and leathery, and the plant produces showy pink flowers throughout the spring, summer, and fall, which are attractive to pollinators. Following flowering, it bears bright red, cherry-like fruits that are high in vitamin C.

Barbados Cherry is valued for its ornamental beauty, edible fruit, and ease of maintenance. It is often used in tropical and subtropical landscapes for hedges, screens, or as a specimen plant. The fruit is edible and can be used in jellies, drinks, and as a natural vitamin supplement. In cultivation, it prefers full sun but can tolerate part shade, and it requires medium amounts of water. It adapts to a range of soil types, provided they have good drainage. While generally pest-resistant, it can be susceptible to aphids and scale insects. Barbados Cherry is not typically invasive but should be monitored in ideal growing conditions outside its native range to prevent unwanted spread.CC BY-SA 4.0