Barbados Cherry
Malpighia glabra
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
36"–72" H × 36"–72" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
TX
Pollinators
butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Barbados Cherry is a compact shrub that produces small pink flowers nearly year-round and edible red cherries rich in vitamin C. This semi-evergreen maintains its attractive appearance through most seasons and adapts well to Texas heat and humidity.
In an HOA neighborhood
Barbados Cherry takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Height exceeds typical HOA-friendly range
Wildlife value
The long blooming period provides nectar for butterflies from spring through fall. The small fruits also attract birds when they ripen.
Common questions
- How much sun does Barbados Cherry need?
- Barbados Cherry grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Barbados Cherry bloom?
- Barbados Cherry blooms in March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, and November.
- Where is Barbados Cherry native?
- Barbados Cherry (Malpighia glabra) is native to TX, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Barbados Cherry attract?
- Barbados Cherry draws butterflies.
- Is Barbados Cherry HOA-friendly?
- Barbados Cherry takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Barbados Cherry fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.