This Florida Native tree has been listed as threatened by the State of Florida. It is a fast growing tree that gets adorned with white trumpet like flowers during the winter to then reveal oval or egg shaped seeds almost rust in color. Used as a specimen plant / small tree.
How to care for West Indian Cherry
Light. Full sun to light shade.
Water. Water regularly while it establishes. It prefers moist soil but tolerates short dry spells once established.
Soil and feeding. It wants moist, well-drained limestone or sandy soil with organic matter on top. It likes high-pH soil, so South Florida's rocky ground suits it.
Size. Grows 25 ft or more, typically 25–35 ft. It grows fast, with a slender crown that is taller than broad.
Good to know. A Florida native of Miami-Dade rockland hammocks, listed as threatened in Florida. It has little tolerance for salt spray. Bees pollinate the flowers and birds eat the fruit. The fruit is not edible, and the leaves and seeds are poisonous to people.
Sources: Natives for Your Neighborhood (Institute for Regional Conservation): Prunus myrtifolia · Florida Native Plant Society Plant Database: Prunus myrtifolia
