Overview
Byrsonima spicata is a plant with a shrub, small tree habit in the genus Byrsonima, part of the Malpighiaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Byrsonima spicata grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1b. Suggested uses include conservatory, greenhouse and patio container. It is native to Parque Nacional Natural Serranía de Chiribiquete | Parque Nacional Natural Sierra de la Macarena | Parque Nacional Natural Los Katíos and Archipiélago de Cuba.
About
Byrsonima spicata, commonly known as shoemaker's bark tree, is a deciduous shrub or small tree belonging to the Malpighiaceae family. It thrives in full sun on a south-facing, sheltered aspect with fertile, well-drained loam soil of neutral pH and moderate moisture. Native to several national parks in Colombia and Cuba, this plant is suitable for cultivation in conservatories, greenhouses, or patio containers in the UK, where it requires protection (hardiness H1b). Interest in this species is primarily during spring and summer, and it can be propagated by seed or stem cuttings.
About the genus
Byrsonima is one of about 75 genera in the Malpighiaceae, a family of flowering plants in the order Malpighiales. In particular in American English, they are known as locustberries.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Byrsonima
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moderate
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1b
Plant details
Byrsonima spicata size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Shrub, small tree
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Conservatory, greenhouse, patio container
- Native to
- Parque Nacional Natural Serranía de Chiribiquete | Parque Nacional Natural Sierra de la Macarena | Parque Nacional Natural Los Katíos, Archipiélago de Cuba
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Byrsonima spicata
- Propagation
- Seed, stem cutting
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to aphids, scale insects
- Disease resistance
- Susceptible to powdery mildew
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Byrsonima spicata?
Byrsonima spicata prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Byrsonima spicata need?
Byrsonima spicata grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate.
Is Byrsonima spicata hardy in the UK?
Byrsonima spicata has an RHS hardiness rating of H1b, meaning it needs subtropical warmth of 10–15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Byrsonima spicata?
Seed, stem cutting.