Hortiforum

General Info – Panama Berry, Jamaica Cherry, Strawberry Tree, Calabur

A prolific producer of deliciously sweet berries that ripen across an extended period, the Panama Berry is an ideal addition to any garden, especially for families with children or those seeking a sweet treat.
Perfect for on-the-go foraging, these small berries ripen to vibrant shades of red or pink, not only appealing to the eye but also enticing to birds, which may necessitate protective measures. Beneath the berry’s tough yet edible skin lies a creamy, juicy pulp boasting a sweet, musky flavour often likened to Cotton Candy, Figs, and occasionally Vanilla Ice Cream. While these fruits are best savoured freshly plucked, they can also be transformed into pies or jams. Panama Berries are not only delicious but nutritious given their high Vitamin C content making them a healthy snack as well. Berries are abundantly borne across the year being a beloved choice of children and those with a penchant for sweets.
Panama Berry trees forms an elegant, slender silhouette with a straightforward, vertical growth pattern and nearly horizontal branches. Its serrated leaves, spaced apart gracefully, offer a soft touch and may exhibit a weeping tendency, particularly in dry weather when they tend to wilt easily. The Panama Berry is sometimes referred to as the “Strawberry tree” due to the striking resemblance of its attractive white flowers to those of Strawberries. Young plants exhibit rapid growth, often growing several metres within a single year, and they may even start flowering and fruiting within just two years, which is ideal for gardeners aiming for prompt yields.
Indigenous to and widely spread throughout the tropics of the Americas, this tree thrives in consistently warm temperatures but cannot withstand frost. While it can adapt to various soil types, ranging from acidic to alkaline, it thrives best in well-drained soil and full sunlight. Though mature plants exhibit drought tolerance, young ones require regular watering, and consistent moisture is necessary for year-round fruiting. This can be ensured through deep mulching which will add organic matter to the soil and hold in moisture. Consistent watering throughout the year and a sheltered location protected from strong winds are highly recommended.
With its delightful pink berries and enticing flavour, the Panama Berry serves as a compelling incentive to delve into gardening endeavours.

Plant Profile/Properties