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 is a deciduous shrub or small tree in the Malpighiaceae that flowers in the UK from July to September. It prefers full sun in a loam soil of neutral pH with moderate moisture and benefits from a south-facing, sheltered position. As an H1b-rated plant it is tender and suits a conservatory, greenhouse or patio container where it can be protected from frost. Originating from protected sites in the Americas, it is best kept where winter exposure is controlled.

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. Another widely seen common name is serrets or serrettes.

Wikipedia contributors, "Byrsonima", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Byrsonima

In the garden

Byrsonima spicata is a deciduous shrub or small tree in the Malpighiaceae, native to Parque Nacional Natural Serranía de Chiribiquete, Parque Nacional Natural Sierra de la Macarena, Parque Nacional Natural Los Katíos and the Archipiélago de Cuba. In its native setting it occurs in warm, sheltered localities; in the UK those origins translate to a need for protection through colder months. It reliably flowers across July to September in suitable conditions. Position this plant in full sun with a south-facing aspect and avoid exposed sites; a sheltered location is important. Use a loam-based compost or soil with a neutral pH and keep moisture at a moderate level rather than waterlogging; good drainage will help overwintering in containers. The H1b hardiness rating means it is tender in UK terms and should be kept frost-free—best accommodated under glass or moved indoors when cold weather threatens. Because of its hardiness band and cultural needs, Byrsonima spicata is most practical in a conservatory, greenhouse or on a south-facing patio where it can be container-grown and shifted as required. Placing it where summer flowering can be enjoyed from a warm, sheltered seat takes advantage of its seasonal display while keeping the plant safe through the winter months.

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