Overview
Eugenia uniflora is a plant with a shrub, small tree habit in the genus Eugenia, part of the Myrtaceae family, with evergreen, glossy, dark green leaves foliage. Eugenia uniflora grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1b. Suggested uses include hedges, topiaries and ornamental plantings.
About
Eugenia uniflora, commonly known as Surinam cherry, is a shrub or small tree belonging to the Myrtaceae family. It features evergreen, glossy, dark green leaves and thrives in full sun or partial shade, ideally in a south-facing, sheltered position. This cultivar prefers consistently moist, well-drained loam soil with a pH that can be acid, alkaline, or neutral. Hardy to UK zone H1b, it is suitable for hedges, topiaries, and ornamental plantings, with interest in spring and summer. Propagation is typically by semi-ripe cuttings or air layering.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Eugenia
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Consistently moist, well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1b
Plant details
Eugenia uniflora size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Shrub, small tree
- Foliage
- Evergreen, glossy, dark green leaves
- Suggested uses
- Hedges, topiaries, ornamental plantings
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Eugenia uniflora
- Propagation
- Semi-ripe cuttings, air layering
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to Eugenia psyllid, aphids, scale insects, whiteflies
- Disease resistance
- Prone to leaf spot, root rot
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Eugenia uniflora?
Eugenia uniflora prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Eugenia uniflora need?
Eugenia uniflora grows best in loam soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays consistently moist to well-drained.
Is Eugenia uniflora hardy in the UK?
Eugenia uniflora 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 Eugenia uniflora?
Semi-ripe cuttings, air layering.
