Plant Description

Malpighia coccigera is a species of flowering plant in the family Malpighiaceae.  It is commonly known as Singapore holly or dwarf holly because of the shape of its leaves. Its white flowers are followed by red berries, which are technically drupes. The fruit are favorite by birds and they disperse the seeds through droppings. It is grown as an ornamental plant and often used to make bonsai. Their small size makes them well suited for planting along a foundation. The fine texture contrasts nicely with medium and coarse-textured, taller shrubs. Their dense growth habit allows them to fill in in front of taller shrubs which may have become thin at the bottom.

Sunlight

It can be placed outdoors but in shade or part shade with protection from noon sun.

This plant prefers bright indirect sunlight.

Soil

• Soil should be well drain and fertile.

Watering

• Poke your finger/plain small stick into the soil to check the moisture.
• Apply 1 cup (Approx. 50 ml) water when the top soil (3-4 inch) in pot feels dry to touch.
• Apply water probably in the morning or evening time.
• Do not overwater the plant.
• As a rule of thumb, water the plant thoroughly in the summer and reduce watering in winter and rainy season.

Application of fertilizer

• Before application of fertilizer loosen the topsoil without disturbing the roots of the plant so it can uptake the nutrients and moisture.
• During the main growing season (January-March) feed the plant with organic fertilizer once a month.
• Apply water immediately after application of fertilizer.

Plant Protection

• Remove dead, infected or damaged plant parts and discard them away from the plants.
• For any insect attack or disease, you can use Neem oil, Eucalyptus oil or Citrus oil spray for primary treatment.

Don’ts

• Do not over water the plant especially when pot does not have drainage holes.
• keep away from the AC Vents.
• Do not apply water on plant leaves.

Initial care for 1-2 weeks after receiving plant at your location.

• Check the moisture in the soil before watering it.
• Poke your finger into the soil, if dry then apply water.
• Keep the plant in indirect light.
• Do not repot immediately after receiving it.