Cherry of the Rio Grande (Eugenia Involuncrata)
These are one of the best fruits to come out of the rainforest and you know we about to create rainforests all over New Orleans. I first ate them in Brad Mayeaux’s yard five or six years ago and had one growing at Mystery Garden in the 9th Ward. This batch comes all the way from Argentina. Seeds were started on 9/15/24.
It is one of the tropical fruits that most resembles what we think of when we think of the taste of a fresh ripe cherry. Sweet and tangy with a crunchy outside and a moist and juicy inside. This one will come back year after year and is very easy to maintain once established.
Cherry of the Rio Grande (Eugenia involucrata), also known as Guavaberry or Brazilian Cherry, is a small tropical tree native to Brazil and other parts of South America. It's prized for its sweet, tangy red fruit and glossy green foliage. Growing this tree in New Orleans (USDA Zone 9b) presents some challenges, particularly because it is sensitive to frost, but with proper care, it can thrive in the city's warm, humid climate.
Here's everything you need to know about growing Cherry of the Rio Grande (Eugenia involucrata) in New Orleans:
1. Temperature Tolerance
Frost Sensitivity: Cherry of the Rio Grande is not frost-tolerant. It thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, with an ideal temperature range of 60°F to 85°F (15°C to 29°C). In New Orleans, where winter temperatures can dip to 25°F to 30°F (-3°C to -1°C), the tree will need protection from freezing temperatures, especially in young plants or newly planted specimens.
During the winter months, be prepared to protect your tree from frost. You can do this by:
Covering it with frost cloth or blankets during cold spells and adding de-icing cables as shown here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=YgYUnaTf5Pg
Moving young plants into a greenhouse or a sheltered location, such as a covered porch, when cold weather is expected.
Using outdoor frost protection (such as heat lamps or garden blankets) if the tree is in-ground and established.
In general, frost protection is key to ensuring the tree survives occasional cold snaps in New Orleans. Once two or three years old, in ground plants will come back year after year even if nothing is done to protect them.
2. Sunlight Requirements
Cherry of the Rio Grande prefers full sun for optimal growth and fruit production. Ideally, the tree should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
However, because New Orleans summers can be extremely hot, you may want to plant it where it gets morning sun and some afternoon shade, particularly if the tree is young or in the early stages of establishment. This will help protect it from excessive sunburn, especially during the hottest part of the day.
3. Soil Requirements
The tree thrives in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0 to 7.0). New Orleans has heavy clay soils, so you may need to amend the soil to improve drainage and fertility. At CRISP we plant daikon radish to break up the soil. We also use nitrogen fixers like pigeon pea and cassia. We use moringa and tithonia to dig dig into the soil and create a canopy to support understory trees and yound fruit trees. In addition, we use all of the aforementioned as chop and drop mulch.
Consider amending the soil with compost, organic matter, or sand to create a loose, well-drained environment for the roots. Alternatively, planting in a raised bed or on a mound will help improve drainage and prevent root rot.
Avoid planting in low-lying areas where water tends to collect, as the tree does not tolerate standing water.
4. Watering Needs
Cherry of the Rio Grande prefers consistent moisture but does not like to sit in water. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
During the growing season (spring and summer), water regularly, especially during dry spells. It's best to water deeply to encourage strong root growth. However, make sure the soil drains well after watering, as waterlogged conditions can lead to root rot.
In the winter, reduce watering, but monitor soil moisture to prevent it from completely drying out.
5. Humidity and Rainfall
High humidity is beneficial for Cherry of the Rio Grande, and the humid climate of New Orleans will likely be an advantage for the tree.
Regular rainfall in New Orleans can be beneficial, but ensure that the soil drains properly to prevent waterlogging. If the area tends to become too wet, you can raise the planting bed or mound the soil to improve drainage.
6. Frost Protection and Winter Care
As mentioned earlier, frost protection is essential in New Orleans during rare cold spells. Young plants and newly planted trees are more vulnerable to frost, but even mature trees can suffer if exposed to freezing temperatures.
Methods to protect your tree during winter:
Cover the tree with frost cloth, blankets, or other materials when cold temperatures are expected.
Use outdoor heating lamps or small space heaters to create warmth around the tree if it's planted in the ground.
Consider planting the tree in a sheltered location (such as next to a wall, fence, or large shrub) to protect it from cold winds.
Once the tree is established, it may be able to tolerate the occasional cold snap better, but protection will still be important during particularly severe winters.
7. Growth Habit and Size
Cherry of the Rio Grande is a small to medium-sized tree, typically growing to about 8–12 feet (2.5–3.5 meters) tall and wide. It has a dense, bushy growth habit with glossy green leaves.
If you prefer a smaller tree, you can prune it to maintain a more compact shape or even train it into a shrub-like form.
Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before the growing season begins. This helps shape the tree and remove any dead or damaged wood.
8. Fruit Production
Cherry of the Rio Grande produces small, red or orange fruits that resemble cherries, but with a more tangy-sweet flavor. The fruit typically ripens in late summer to fall.
The tree can begin producing fruit in about 3 to 5 years if grown from a grafted nursery tree, although it may take longer if grown from seed.
To encourage better fruit production, ensure the tree receives ample sunlight and consistent watering. Also, providing good air circulation will help reduce the risk of fungal diseases in humid environments.
If you're growing multiple trees, cross-pollination can increase fruit yield, but some trees may still fruit with self-pollination.
9. Pests and Diseases
Cherry of the Rio Grande is relatively pest-resistant, but common pests such as aphids, whiteflies, or scale insects may occasionally appear, especially in warm, humid environments.
Regularly inspect your tree for signs of pests, such as sticky residue (from aphids) or discolored leaves. If necessary, use organic pest control methods, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.
To prevent fungal diseases, ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering. Proper spacing and pruning to improve air circulation will also help minimize the risk of fungal issues.
10. Pruning and Maintenance
Prune the tree to maintain a desired shape and remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches. Light pruning after the fruiting season will encourage new growth and keep the tree manageable.
Prune sparingly to maintain a natural shape and avoid over-stressing the plant. Be cautious when pruning during the growing season, as the tree may be sensitive to cuts that remove too much healthy tissue.
Conclusion
Cherry of the Rio Grande (Eugenia involucrata) can be successfully grown in New Orleans (Zone 9b) with proper care, particularly in terms of frost protection during cold weather. The key to success is ensuring adequate warmth, moisture, and well-draining soil, while also protecting the tree during the occasional winter cold snaps. The tree will thrive in New Orleans' humid climate and benefit from regular watering, good sunlight, and occasional pruning. With some effort to protect it during the winter months, this tropical fruit tree can provide a delicious harvest of sweet, tangy fruits for your garden.
These are one of the best fruits to come out of the rainforest and you know we about to create rainforests all over New Orleans. I first ate them in Brad Mayeaux’s yard five or six years ago and had one growing at Mystery Garden in the 9th Ward. This batch comes all the way from Argentina. Seeds were started on 9/15/24.
It is one of the tropical fruits that most resembles what we think of when we think of the taste of a fresh ripe cherry. Sweet and tangy with a crunchy outside and a moist and juicy inside. This one will come back year after year and is very easy to maintain once established.
Cherry of the Rio Grande (Eugenia involucrata), also known as Guavaberry or Brazilian Cherry, is a small tropical tree native to Brazil and other parts of South America. It's prized for its sweet, tangy red fruit and glossy green foliage. Growing this tree in New Orleans (USDA Zone 9b) presents some challenges, particularly because it is sensitive to frost, but with proper care, it can thrive in the city's warm, humid climate.
Here's everything you need to know about growing Cherry of the Rio Grande (Eugenia involucrata) in New Orleans:
1. Temperature Tolerance
Frost Sensitivity: Cherry of the Rio Grande is not frost-tolerant. It thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, with an ideal temperature range of 60°F to 85°F (15°C to 29°C). In New Orleans, where winter temperatures can dip to 25°F to 30°F (-3°C to -1°C), the tree will need protection from freezing temperatures, especially in young plants or newly planted specimens.
During the winter months, be prepared to protect your tree from frost. You can do this by:
Covering it with frost cloth or blankets during cold spells and adding de-icing cables as shown here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=YgYUnaTf5Pg
Moving young plants into a greenhouse or a sheltered location, such as a covered porch, when cold weather is expected.
Using outdoor frost protection (such as heat lamps or garden blankets) if the tree is in-ground and established.
In general, frost protection is key to ensuring the tree survives occasional cold snaps in New Orleans. Once two or three years old, in ground plants will come back year after year even if nothing is done to protect them.
2. Sunlight Requirements
Cherry of the Rio Grande prefers full sun for optimal growth and fruit production. Ideally, the tree should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
However, because New Orleans summers can be extremely hot, you may want to plant it where it gets morning sun and some afternoon shade, particularly if the tree is young or in the early stages of establishment. This will help protect it from excessive sunburn, especially during the hottest part of the day.
3. Soil Requirements
The tree thrives in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0 to 7.0). New Orleans has heavy clay soils, so you may need to amend the soil to improve drainage and fertility. At CRISP we plant daikon radish to break up the soil. We also use nitrogen fixers like pigeon pea and cassia. We use moringa and tithonia to dig dig into the soil and create a canopy to support understory trees and yound fruit trees. In addition, we use all of the aforementioned as chop and drop mulch.
Consider amending the soil with compost, organic matter, or sand to create a loose, well-drained environment for the roots. Alternatively, planting in a raised bed or on a mound will help improve drainage and prevent root rot.
Avoid planting in low-lying areas where water tends to collect, as the tree does not tolerate standing water.
4. Watering Needs
Cherry of the Rio Grande prefers consistent moisture but does not like to sit in water. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
During the growing season (spring and summer), water regularly, especially during dry spells. It's best to water deeply to encourage strong root growth. However, make sure the soil drains well after watering, as waterlogged conditions can lead to root rot.
In the winter, reduce watering, but monitor soil moisture to prevent it from completely drying out.
5. Humidity and Rainfall
High humidity is beneficial for Cherry of the Rio Grande, and the humid climate of New Orleans will likely be an advantage for the tree.
Regular rainfall in New Orleans can be beneficial, but ensure that the soil drains properly to prevent waterlogging. If the area tends to become too wet, you can raise the planting bed or mound the soil to improve drainage.
6. Frost Protection and Winter Care
As mentioned earlier, frost protection is essential in New Orleans during rare cold spells. Young plants and newly planted trees are more vulnerable to frost, but even mature trees can suffer if exposed to freezing temperatures.
Methods to protect your tree during winter:
Cover the tree with frost cloth, blankets, or other materials when cold temperatures are expected.
Use outdoor heating lamps or small space heaters to create warmth around the tree if it's planted in the ground.
Consider planting the tree in a sheltered location (such as next to a wall, fence, or large shrub) to protect it from cold winds.
Once the tree is established, it may be able to tolerate the occasional cold snap better, but protection will still be important during particularly severe winters.
7. Growth Habit and Size
Cherry of the Rio Grande is a small to medium-sized tree, typically growing to about 8–12 feet (2.5–3.5 meters) tall and wide. It has a dense, bushy growth habit with glossy green leaves.
If you prefer a smaller tree, you can prune it to maintain a more compact shape or even train it into a shrub-like form.
Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before the growing season begins. This helps shape the tree and remove any dead or damaged wood.
8. Fruit Production
Cherry of the Rio Grande produces small, red or orange fruits that resemble cherries, but with a more tangy-sweet flavor. The fruit typically ripens in late summer to fall.
The tree can begin producing fruit in about 3 to 5 years if grown from a grafted nursery tree, although it may take longer if grown from seed.
To encourage better fruit production, ensure the tree receives ample sunlight and consistent watering. Also, providing good air circulation will help reduce the risk of fungal diseases in humid environments.
If you're growing multiple trees, cross-pollination can increase fruit yield, but some trees may still fruit with self-pollination.
9. Pests and Diseases
Cherry of the Rio Grande is relatively pest-resistant, but common pests such as aphids, whiteflies, or scale insects may occasionally appear, especially in warm, humid environments.
Regularly inspect your tree for signs of pests, such as sticky residue (from aphids) or discolored leaves. If necessary, use organic pest control methods, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.
To prevent fungal diseases, ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering. Proper spacing and pruning to improve air circulation will also help minimize the risk of fungal issues.
10. Pruning and Maintenance
Prune the tree to maintain a desired shape and remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches. Light pruning after the fruiting season will encourage new growth and keep the tree manageable.
Prune sparingly to maintain a natural shape and avoid over-stressing the plant. Be cautious when pruning during the growing season, as the tree may be sensitive to cuts that remove too much healthy tissue.
Conclusion
Cherry of the Rio Grande (Eugenia involucrata) can be successfully grown in New Orleans (Zone 9b) with proper care, particularly in terms of frost protection during cold weather. The key to success is ensuring adequate warmth, moisture, and well-draining soil, while also protecting the tree during the occasional winter cold snaps. The tree will thrive in New Orleans' humid climate and benefit from regular watering, good sunlight, and occasional pruning. With some effort to protect it during the winter months, this tropical fruit tree can provide a delicious harvest of sweet, tangy fruits for your garden.
These are one of the best fruits to come out of the rainforest and you know we about to create rainforests all over New Orleans. I first ate them in Brad Mayeaux’s yard five or six years ago and had one growing at Mystery Garden in the 9th Ward. This batch comes all the way from Argentina. Seeds were started on 9/15/24.
It is one of the tropical fruits that most resembles what we think of when we think of the taste of a fresh ripe cherry. Sweet and tangy with a crunchy outside and a moist and juicy inside. This one will come back year after year and is very easy to maintain once established.
Cherry of the Rio Grande (Eugenia involucrata), also known as Guavaberry or Brazilian Cherry, is a small tropical tree native to Brazil and other parts of South America. It's prized for its sweet, tangy red fruit and glossy green foliage. Growing this tree in New Orleans (USDA Zone 9b) presents some challenges, particularly because it is sensitive to frost, but with proper care, it can thrive in the city's warm, humid climate.
Here's everything you need to know about growing Cherry of the Rio Grande (Eugenia involucrata) in New Orleans:
1. Temperature Tolerance
Frost Sensitivity: Cherry of the Rio Grande is not frost-tolerant. It thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, with an ideal temperature range of 60°F to 85°F (15°C to 29°C). In New Orleans, where winter temperatures can dip to 25°F to 30°F (-3°C to -1°C), the tree will need protection from freezing temperatures, especially in young plants or newly planted specimens.
During the winter months, be prepared to protect your tree from frost. You can do this by:
Covering it with frost cloth or blankets during cold spells and adding de-icing cables as shown here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=YgYUnaTf5Pg
Moving young plants into a greenhouse or a sheltered location, such as a covered porch, when cold weather is expected.
Using outdoor frost protection (such as heat lamps or garden blankets) if the tree is in-ground and established.
In general, frost protection is key to ensuring the tree survives occasional cold snaps in New Orleans. Once two or three years old, in ground plants will come back year after year even if nothing is done to protect them.
2. Sunlight Requirements
Cherry of the Rio Grande prefers full sun for optimal growth and fruit production. Ideally, the tree should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
However, because New Orleans summers can be extremely hot, you may want to plant it where it gets morning sun and some afternoon shade, particularly if the tree is young or in the early stages of establishment. This will help protect it from excessive sunburn, especially during the hottest part of the day.
3. Soil Requirements
The tree thrives in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0 to 7.0). New Orleans has heavy clay soils, so you may need to amend the soil to improve drainage and fertility. At CRISP we plant daikon radish to break up the soil. We also use nitrogen fixers like pigeon pea and cassia. We use moringa and tithonia to dig dig into the soil and create a canopy to support understory trees and yound fruit trees. In addition, we use all of the aforementioned as chop and drop mulch.
Consider amending the soil with compost, organic matter, or sand to create a loose, well-drained environment for the roots. Alternatively, planting in a raised bed or on a mound will help improve drainage and prevent root rot.
Avoid planting in low-lying areas where water tends to collect, as the tree does not tolerate standing water.
4. Watering Needs
Cherry of the Rio Grande prefers consistent moisture but does not like to sit in water. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
During the growing season (spring and summer), water regularly, especially during dry spells. It's best to water deeply to encourage strong root growth. However, make sure the soil drains well after watering, as waterlogged conditions can lead to root rot.
In the winter, reduce watering, but monitor soil moisture to prevent it from completely drying out.
5. Humidity and Rainfall
High humidity is beneficial for Cherry of the Rio Grande, and the humid climate of New Orleans will likely be an advantage for the tree.
Regular rainfall in New Orleans can be beneficial, but ensure that the soil drains properly to prevent waterlogging. If the area tends to become too wet, you can raise the planting bed or mound the soil to improve drainage.
6. Frost Protection and Winter Care
As mentioned earlier, frost protection is essential in New Orleans during rare cold spells. Young plants and newly planted trees are more vulnerable to frost, but even mature trees can suffer if exposed to freezing temperatures.
Methods to protect your tree during winter:
Cover the tree with frost cloth, blankets, or other materials when cold temperatures are expected.
Use outdoor heating lamps or small space heaters to create warmth around the tree if it's planted in the ground.
Consider planting the tree in a sheltered location (such as next to a wall, fence, or large shrub) to protect it from cold winds.
Once the tree is established, it may be able to tolerate the occasional cold snap better, but protection will still be important during particularly severe winters.
7. Growth Habit and Size
Cherry of the Rio Grande is a small to medium-sized tree, typically growing to about 8–12 feet (2.5–3.5 meters) tall and wide. It has a dense, bushy growth habit with glossy green leaves.
If you prefer a smaller tree, you can prune it to maintain a more compact shape or even train it into a shrub-like form.
Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before the growing season begins. This helps shape the tree and remove any dead or damaged wood.
8. Fruit Production
Cherry of the Rio Grande produces small, red or orange fruits that resemble cherries, but with a more tangy-sweet flavor. The fruit typically ripens in late summer to fall.
The tree can begin producing fruit in about 3 to 5 years if grown from a grafted nursery tree, although it may take longer if grown from seed.
To encourage better fruit production, ensure the tree receives ample sunlight and consistent watering. Also, providing good air circulation will help reduce the risk of fungal diseases in humid environments.
If you're growing multiple trees, cross-pollination can increase fruit yield, but some trees may still fruit with self-pollination.
9. Pests and Diseases
Cherry of the Rio Grande is relatively pest-resistant, but common pests such as aphids, whiteflies, or scale insects may occasionally appear, especially in warm, humid environments.
Regularly inspect your tree for signs of pests, such as sticky residue (from aphids) or discolored leaves. If necessary, use organic pest control methods, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.
To prevent fungal diseases, ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering. Proper spacing and pruning to improve air circulation will also help minimize the risk of fungal issues.
10. Pruning and Maintenance
Prune the tree to maintain a desired shape and remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches. Light pruning after the fruiting season will encourage new growth and keep the tree manageable.
Prune sparingly to maintain a natural shape and avoid over-stressing the plant. Be cautious when pruning during the growing season, as the tree may be sensitive to cuts that remove too much healthy tissue.
Conclusion
Cherry of the Rio Grande (Eugenia involucrata) can be successfully grown in New Orleans (Zone 9b) with proper care, particularly in terms of frost protection during cold weather. The key to success is ensuring adequate warmth, moisture, and well-draining soil, while also protecting the tree during the occasional winter cold snaps. The tree will thrive in New Orleans' humid climate and benefit from regular watering, good sunlight, and occasional pruning. With some effort to protect it during the winter months, this tropical fruit tree can provide a delicious harvest of sweet, tangy fruits for your garden.