Malpighia punicifolia Nana

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give it too much water, the foliage may yellow.

Though Malpighia punicifolia Nana is small and slow-growing, it makes an excellent bonsai specimen, with clippings taken in the summer months easily rootable. Despite its diminutive size, this shrub is surprisingly cold hardy, tolerating temperatures down to the 30s F for a short time - an excellent trait in gardens located in USDA Zones 9-11.

The delightful fruit of the Malpighia punicifolia Nana is quite healthy. The uniquely sweet flavor is a mix of cranberry, apple, and hibiscus. Rich in vitamin C, protects against inflammation, and is known to reduce cholesterol, this fantastic fruit can be eaten as-is, used in smoothies or to make jams, jellies and other sauces. One mature bush can produce several pounds of fruit, making it an excellent choice for growing your own food.

In containers, this fastidious shrub requires regular watering and feeding to keep it going in cold climates. Plant it in a well-draining potting soil with a slightly acidic pH, and make sure it gets a good dose of fertilizer at least once a month during growing season. Provide good air circulation and make sure the season's extreme temperatures are kept in mind. When the frigid cold arrives, it's time to move the potted shrub indoors, or wrap it with heavy burlap to protect it from the harshest winter winds.

Similar plants:

• Byrsonima crassifolia, Malpighia crassifolia (Nancy Tree, Golden Spoon, Nance)
• Malpighia coccigera (Miniature Holly, Singapore Holly, Florida Holly)
• Malpighia glabra (Barbados Cherry, Acerola, Malphigia, Cerejeira)