Savannah cherry

Savannah Cherry

The Savannah Cherry (Eugenia calycina) is a beautiful and productive fruiting shrub native to Brazil, well-suited to warm climates like Florida. It offers delicious fruit and is relatively easy to grow. 

Plant Characteristics:

• Size and Habit: Savannah Cherry is a compact shrub, typically growing to 6-12 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide.
• Hardiness: It thrives in USDA Zones 9-11, making it suitable for most of Florida.
• Foliage: It features attractive, glossy, dark green leaves.
• Flowers: It produces small, white flowers that are followed by fruit. 

Fruit Characteristics:

• Size and Appearance: The fruit is about the size of a cherry, with a deep red to black color when ripe.
• Flavor: Savannah Cherry has a sweet and tart flavor, with a juicy pulp.
• Uses: The fruit is delicious eaten fresh, and it can also be used to make jams, jellies, or beverages. 

Growing Conditions:

• Climate: Savannah Cherry prefers warm, tropical to subtropical climates.
• Sunlight: It thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
• Soil: It requires well-draining, fertile soil. 

Care:

• Watering: Water regularly, especially during the first year, and during dry periods.
• Fertilizing: Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the early spring.
• Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged stems and to maintain the desired shape. 

In Summary:

The Savannah Cherry is an excellent choice for Florida gardeners looking for a relatively compact, easy-to-grow, and productive fruiting shrub. Its attractive appearance, delicious fruit, and adaptability make it a worthwhile addition to any landscape.