Surinam cherry is more of a problem in South Florida, but it's important that all Floridians be aware of invasive plants. Surinam Cherry (Eugenia uniflora) is very invasive in many natural areas as well as in the landscape as well as in many habitats in central and southern Florida and the Keys from zone 9a southward, including disturbed areas and vacant lots, pinelands, dry xeric sites and many other habitats, including in … It is also known as acerola or West Indian Cherry, and is prized for its bright red, edible fruit. I'd love to start growing these plants (starfruit, barbados cherry, surinam cherry), but all the plants online seem really expensive (like $30 or more +shipping). Native Barbados cherry, a small shrub/tree to 4-6′ tall, is a great choice for small landscapes, to screen a view, or accent a habitat garden. Hey! Thanks for any info! Surinam and Barbados Cherries are different. Malpighia glabra. Call it what you will: Barbados cherry, acerola, West Indian cherry, Puerto Rican cherry, Jamaican cherry or -- to be exact -- Malpighia glabra. Jul 23, 2014 - Pintanga (Surinam Cherry versus Acerola (Barbados Cherry). South Florida homeowners should no longer plant Surinam cherry. Frequently confused, these fruits belong to different species. Young plants are killed by any drop below 30º F (-1.11º C). Plus it does make a … Malpighia emarginata is a tropical fruit-bearing shrub or small tree in the family Malpighiaceae.. Common names include acerola cherry, Barbados cherry, West Indian cherry, and wild crepe myrtle. It is naturally adapted to both medium- and low-rainfall regions; can tolerate long periods of drought, though it may not fruit until the coming of rain. If you have any shrubs in your yard, consider removing them to help curb their spread. Is there somewhere to get these for less? Like most plants, it needs a little extra water during the first few years, but is very drought-tolerant once established. The Barbados looks more like a tree and the fruit looks like a northern cherry. It has three seeds inside. Barbados Cherry. This shrub is native to Central America, northern South America, south Texas and the West Indies. I have both in my yard. The Barbados Cherry is a member of the family of plants called Malpighiaceae. The Surinam cherry I do not like. But it was here when we bought the house so I leave it for the birds. The "pitanga" looks like a miniature pumpkin and the "acerola" looks like a miniature apple. The Barbados cherry can be classed as tropical and subtropical, for mature trees can survive brief exposure to 28º F (-2.22º C).