Pitanga (Eugenia uniflora), also known as Surinam Cherry, is a compact tropical fruit tree that produces bright red, sweet-tart fruit. Perfect for home orchards, backyard gardens, and edible landscapes, Pitanga provides nutritious fruit and ornamental foliage.
This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, prefers well-drained, fertile soil, and is Non-GMO, making it ideal for gardeners seeking exotic tropical fruit from seed.
Features
- Produces bright red, sweet-tart Pitanga fruit
- Compact size suitable for home orchards and backyard gardens
- Evergreen tropical fruit tree with ornamental foliage
- Non-GMO seeds
- Low-maintenance, fast-growing
Specifications
- Scientific Name: Eugenia uniflora
- Common Name: Pitanga / Surinam Cherry
- Plant Type: Tropical perennial fruit tree
- Growth Habit: Upright, bushy tree
- Mature Height: 8–15 ft (smaller in containers)
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 10–11 (container planting possible in cooler zones)
- Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Type: Well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter
- Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (5.5–7.0)
- Watering Needs: Moderate; keep soil consistently moist
- Germination Time: 2–4 weeks
- Days to Fruit: 2–3 years from seed under optimal conditions
- Seed Type: Non-GMO
- Container Friendly: Yes
- Climate Preference: Warm, frost-free tropical/subtropical regions
- Suggested Growing Sites: Home orchards, backyard gardens, patios, containers
- Winter Care: Protect seedlings from frost; mulch base in cooler climates
Planting Guide
- Soak seeds in warm water for 24–48 hours to improve germination.
- Sow seeds 1/4–1/2 inch deep in well-draining, fertile seed-starting mix.
- Keep soil moist and maintain temperatures of 70–85°F (21–29°C) until germination.
- Transplant seedlings into garden beds or containers after reaching 6–8 inches tall.
- Provide full sun to partial shade, regular watering, and occasional fertilization; mulch around base in winter.