Acerola (Malpighia emarginata)

Family: Malpighiaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Malpighia emarginata or also known in various names such as acerola, Barbados cherry, West Indian cherry, and wild crepe myrtle is an evergreen shrub or small tree with a short bole and spreading branches. It usually grows about 2-3 m in height. The branches are brittle. The leaves are simple ovate-lanceolate, opposite, and with small hairs. The flowers are bisexual with five pink or red petals.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavour from sweet to somewhat acid. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; The bright red fruit can range in flavour from sweet to somewhat acid.; As well as being eaten out of hand, they can also be stewed, made into juices, sauces, jellies, jams, wines or purees.; The fruits are very rich in vitamin C (1 - 4 g per 100 g juice).

Habitat & North American Range

Not known. (Zone 10)