Terengganu cherry Fruit Plant - Lepisanthes alata

Lepisanthes alata, also known as Malay Cherry, Johore Tree Fruit, or Chinese Averrhoe, is a beautiful tropical evergreen tree belonging to the lychee family (Sapindaceae). Native to Southeast Asia, it produces sweet, edible red-to-purple fruits with translucent white pulp and is cherished for both its nutritional value and ornamental appeal. Rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, and polyphenols, this species is not only grown as a fruit-bearing garden tree but also valued for its potential health benefits. Perfect for tropical and subtropical gardens, Lepisanthes alata is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to buy fruit plants online that combine beauty, flavor, and wellness.

🌞 Growing & Care Guide for Lepisanthes alata (Common Names: Malay Cherry, Johore Tree Fruit, Chinese Averrhoe, Malaysian Lepisanthes, Terengganu Cherry)

A small to medium-sized tropical tree, reaching 5–15 meters in height.

Characterized by pinnate leaves with 8–12 pairs of ovate-lanceolate leaflets and winged leaf rachis.

Bears wine-red to purple flowers in pendulous clusters, followed by oval, red-to-purple drupes with sweet, edible white pulp.

Native to the Philippines, Borneo, and Malaysia, and thrives in tropical forest areas near water streams up to 500 meters altitude.

Belongs to the Sapindaceae family, closely related to lychee and rambutan.

☀️ Sunlight & Soil

• Requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and fruiting.

• Prefers moist, well-draining loamy soil, rich in organic matter.

• Can adapt to clay, sandy, or alluvial soils as long as drainage is sufficient.

• Naturally found in forest edges, near rivers, and lowland tropical regions.

💧 Watering

• Water regularly during establishment and fruiting periods.

• Maintain consistent soil moisture but avoid waterlogging.

• In drier regions, mulching helps retain soil moisture and prevent stress.

• Mature trees tolerate short dry spells, but young plants benefit from steady watering.

🌱 Fertilization

• Apply organic compost or well-balanced NPK (10:10:10) fertilizer every 2 months during active growth.

• During fruiting, use high-potassium fertilizers to enhance fruit sweetness and yield.

• Annual addition of farmyard manure or compost mulch boosts soil fertility.

✂️ Pruning

• Prune to shape the canopy and improve air circulation and light penetration.

• Remove dead or overcrowded branches after fruiting season.

• Regular pruning keeps the plant compact, healthy, and productive.

🍂 Mulching

• Apply a 2–3 inch layer of organic mulch (like dried leaves, coco husk, or compost) around the base.

• Helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and stabilize soil temperature.

• Replenish mulch twice yearly for best growth and fruiting.

🐛 Pest & Disease Control

• Generally pest-resistant, but occasional leaf miners, scale insects, or fungal spots may appear.

• Use neem oil or organic pesticide sprays as preventive care.

• Keep soil clean and avoid water stagnation to prevent fungal growth.

🌱 Support for Young Plants

• Stake young saplings for stability until roots are well established.

• Protect seedlings from strong winds and direct harsh sun in the early stages.

• Transplant carefully to avoid damaging the root ball.

🍎 Harvesting

• Fruits are ready to harvest when they turn red to deep purple and are slightly soft to the touch.

• Each fruit contains two edible seeds surrounded by sweet, translucent white pulp.

• Typically, the tree starts fruiting after 3–4 years under ideal conditions.

• Ripe fruits are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, ideal for fresh eating or processing into juices and jams.

🍃 Thinning

• Thin excessive fruit clusters to encourage larger, juicier fruits.

• Remove weak shoots to enhance sunlight penetration and airflow within the canopy.

• Regular thinning prevents resource strain and improves overall fruit quality.

❄️ Winter Protection

• Being a tropical species, it is sensitive to frost.

• In cooler climates, plant in pots or containers that can be moved indoors during winter.

• Apply thick mulch at the base to protect roots from cold damage.

🌸 Advantages of Choosing Lepisanthes alata for Your Garden

🌼 Attractive Tropical Fruit Tree: Striking foliage, colorful flowers, and red-purple fruits make it a perfect ornamental and edible addition to gardens.

🌞 Sun-Loving & Hardy: Thrives in tropical and subtropical climates with minimal maintenance.

🌿 Nutrient & Antioxidant Rich: Fruits contain flavonoids, anthocyanins, and vitamin C, offering natural health benefits.

🦋 Wildlife Friendly: Flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing garden biodiversity.

🌱 Multipurpose Tree: Provides shade, edible fruits, and medicinal leaves, ideal for home gardens or agroforestry.

🧪 Proven Health Benefits: Studies show antioxidant, antibacterial, and antidiabetic properties due to its rich polyphenolic content.

🚫 Low Maintenance: Naturally resistant to pests and adaptable to various soils—ideal for gardeners of all skill levels.

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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.