Barbados Gooseberry (Pereskia aculeata)


Barbados Gooseberry (Pereskia aculeata)

Large shrub 5-10 ft tallVine or creeper plantSemi-shadeFull sunModerate waterRegular waterWhite, off-white flowersThorny or spinyEdible plantPlant attracts butterflies, hummingbirdsSubtropical or temperate zone plant. Mature plant cold hardy at least to 30s F for a short timeSeaside, salt tolerant plant

Barbados Gooseberry - unique cactus with leaves and edible fruit, fast-growing vine. It is a tropical treasure that combines beauty with edible delights. Despite being a cactus, it's not your typical prickly plant. Instead, it features climbing woody stems draped in succulent, alternately arranged leaves that can shift in color from green to red, yellow, or purple. In late summer, it delights with clusters of fragrant white flowers that fill your garden with a sweet aroma.
This unique plant produces small, spiny fruits that resemble gooseberries, with a delightful, pleasant flavor. The fruits are edible and can be enjoyed fresh, stewed, or made into jams and jellies. Even the young leaves are edible, making them a nutritious addition to your meals. The fruit is yellow with a juicy, subacid pulp, and has a flavor that closely resembles a gooseberry.
As a vining cactus shrub, the Barbados Gooseberry bears spines in pairs or trios and thrives in conditions that offer some humidity. It prefers good drainage but likes its soil to remain moist during the summer, while being kept drier in the winter. It's propagated by seed or cutting and is perfect for adding both beauty and function to your garden, provided you give it the right care.

Recommended Fertilizer: SUNSHINE Robusta - Rapid Growth Booster
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Grown in
6-10"/1-3 gal pot
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$39.95

Plant type
Fruit or edible plant
Fruit type
Fruit or edible plant
Plant form ?
Bush
Mature height ?
5-10 ft tall
Sun exposure
Full sun or bright light indoor, Semi-shade
USDA zone ?
Zone 9-11.
Hardiness ?
Light freezing, 30°F for short period of time, mature plants. Young plants must be protected.
Watering
Moderate watering, Regular watering
Flower color
White and off-white flowers
Growing conditions
Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone, Small backyard, Pot-growing, Indoors
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Thorny plants, like rose bushes and some cacti, have sharp parts that can scratch or poke. It's a good idea to wear gloves and be careful around these plants, especially if kids or pets are nearby. Place these plants in spots where theyre less likely to cause harm. This way, everyone can safely enjoy their beauty without getting hurt.

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Thorny or spiny plant
Butterfly attractor
Plant attracts butterflies, hummingbirds
More information

This item is certified for shipping to California, Texas, Louisiana.

Barbados Gooseberry (Pereskia aculeata): Planting and Care Instructions

Plant Overview

Growth habit: This plant grows as a medium-sized bush, about 5 to 10 feet tall. It is easy to manage, fits well in most garden spaces, and can also be grown in a large container or shaped through pruning to suit smaller areas.

Growing conditions: This plant can be grown outdoors in the suitable USDA zone. It is well-suited for small backyards, pots, or indoor spaces with enough light.

Watering: This plant does best with moderate to regular watering. Water it regularly, but let the top layer dry slightly between waterings.

Sun exposure: This plant grows well in both full sun and semi-shade. If kept indoors, give it as much light as possible for best growth.

USDA Zone: Zone 9-11. The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map categorizes North America into zones based on average annual minimum winter temperatures, each differing by 10 °F. This map serves as a basic guide for selecting appropriate plants for a region. However, it's not definitive; plant varieties vary in cold tolerance, and young plants typically need more protection. Additionally, local microclimates, like sheltered areas or sunny spots, can influence plant health and survivability beyond the general zone recommendation.

Hardiness: Light freezing, 30°F for short period of time, mature plants. Young plants must be protected. Plant hardiness indicates the coldest temperature a mature plant can endure briefly while staying healthy. This rating is a guideline and can vary among varieties of the same species. Young plants often need more cold protection. Additionally, a plant's survival can be enhanced by the microclimate of its location, which may provide shelter from wind or extra warmth, allowing it to thrive beyond its typical hardiness range.

Plant type: This is a fruit tree. With proper care, it will grow tasty delicious delicious fruits.

Flower color: This plant produces white and off-white flowers during its blooming season.

Butterfly attractor: This plant attracts butterflies and hummingbirds, making it a great choice for pollinator-friendly gardens.

Thorns: This is a thorny or spiny plant. Use gloves when handling or placing it in the garden.

Outdoor planting

Plant in well-draining soil and choose a location that matches the plant light and space needs. Improve poor soils by mixing in compost or organic matter. Dig a hole twice as wide and no deeper than the root ball - planting too deep can harm the plant. For better drainage, position the plant so the top of the root ball is slightly above ground level. Water thoroughly after planting. Outdoor plants may need temporary shade during the first weeks to protect them from strong sun or heat. Watch the soil moisture closely and water regularly until the plant is well established. Apply mulch around the base to help retain moisture and reduce weeds, forming a shallow basin to hold water. Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk or stem to prevent rot.

Indoor planting

Use a container with drainage holes and a well-draining potting mix. Position the plant so that the top of the root ball is level with the surface of the soil - avoid planting too deep. A slow-release fertilizer can be mixed into the soil at planting time to support healthy growth. Place the plant in a location that matches its light needs, and water according to its care requirements. Be careful not to overwater, and ensure good airflow around the plant to reduce the risk of pests and disease.

Protecting Plants in Winter

When it gets cold, some plants need extra help. You can move potted plants indoors or under a covered patio. Young plants need extra protection because they are more sensitive to cold and less established. For plants in the ground, use frost cloth to keep them warm. Stop using fertilizer in late fall so plants can rest. Try to place plants in areas protected from cold wind, rain, and frost.

Cold Hardiness and Microclimates

USDA zone and hardiness are only general guidelines. Actual cold tolerance can vary based on plant variety and local conditions. Even small differences between varieties can matter. Also, warmer spots in your yard—like near a wall or fence—can help plants survive cold nights. These little warm areas are called microclimates, and they make a big difference.

Outdoor and indoor planting instructions