Manila Tennis Ball Cherry Fruit Plants - Flacourtia SP

Flacourtia sp. ‘Manila Tennis Ball Cherry’, commonly known as Manila Tennis Ball Cherry or Sweet Manila Plum, is a rare tropical fruit-bearing shrub or small tree belonging to the Salicaceae (Willow family). This hardy, drought-tolerant species produces striking round reddish-purple fruits about the size of a tennis ball, known for their sweet flavor and rich antioxidant content. The fruits are eaten fresh or used in jams, jellies, and refreshing drinks. Adapted perfectly to Indian tropical and subtropical climates, this ornamental and productive plant also serves as an excellent living fence or garden centerpiece.

Buy Flacourtia sp. ‘Manila Tennis Ball Cherry’ online and enjoy a tropical cherry-like delight right in your home garden!

🌞 Growing & Care Guide for Flacourtia sp. ‘Manila Tennis Ball Cherry’ (Sweet Manila Plum)

☀️ Sunlight & Soil

  • Requires full sunlight for the best fruit yield and vibrant foliage color.

  • Grows well in well-drained sandy to loamy soil with a neutral pH.

  • Tolerates dry, rocky, or slightly saline soil—ideal for Indian conditions.

  • Performs best in tropical and subtropical climates.

💧 Watering

  • Moderate watering is sufficient; once established, the plant becomes drought-tolerant.

  • Water regularly during early growth and flowering stages.

  • Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.

🌱 Fertilization

   • Apply organic compost or cow manure twice a year.

   • Use a balanced NPK (10:10:10) fertilizer during active growth to boost flowering and fruiting.

  • Supplement with micronutrients to enhance fruit sweetness and color.

✂️ Pruning

  • Light pruning after harvest encourages new shoot growth and better fruit set.

  • Remove dead or crossing branches to improve air circulation.

  • Maintain shape to make it ideal as a hedge or ornamental fruit tree.

🍂 Mulching

  • Apply dry leaves, straw, or compost around the base to retain soil moisture.

  • Mulching helps suppress weeds and improves overall soil fertility.

🐛 Pest & Disease Control

  • Naturally resilient and hardy with minimal pest issues.

  • Occasionally affected by fruit flies or leaf spot—use organic neem oil spray as prevention.

  • Ensure good sunlight and air flow to reduce fungal problems.

🌱 Support for Young Plants

  • Stake young saplings to protect them from strong winds.

  • Maintain consistent soil moisture until well established.

  • Keep the area around the stem weed-free to encourage faster root growth.

🍒 Harvesting

  • Produces large, round reddish-purple cherries, about 3–4 cm in diameter.

  • Fruits mature within 5–7 months after flowering.

  • Ripe fruits are juicy, sweet, and mildly tangy—excellent for fresh eating or preserves.

  • Each tree yields abundant fruit annually once mature.

🍃 Thinning

  • Remove overcrowded or weak branches for better structure.

  • Thinning ensures larger, juicier fruits and even ripening.

❄️ Winter Protection

  • Prefers warm, frost-free climates.

  • In cooler regions, protect young plants with mulch or a garden cover.

  • Minimal protection needed in most Indian tropical regions.

🌸 Advantages of Choosing Flacourtia sp. ‘Manila Tennis Ball Cherry’ for Your Garden

  🌼 Versatile Utility: Dual-purpose plant for fruit production and natural fencing.

  🌞 Sun-Loving & Hardy: Thrives in tropical sunlight with minimal care needs.

  🌿 Medicinal Value: Known in traditional uses for anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.

  🦋 Wildlife Friendly: Fruits attract birds and pollinators, enhancing garden biodiversity.

  🌱 Easy to Grow: Low-maintenance, drought-resistant, and beginner-friendly.

  🧪 Nutrient-Rich Fruits: Packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and flacourtin, promoting health and vitality.

  🚫 Natural Barrier Plant: Thorny branches form a strong living fence that deters grazing animals.

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Note: Each plant is beautifully unique! The images shown are for reference to give you an idea of the general appearance and quality. While your plant may vary slightly in shape and size, you can refer to the third picture for reference.