Today's post is about a wild cherry plant that is found in the recreational park where we go for our early morning walk. This plant must have been planted there in the park by one of the regular men who frequent this park because I used to see a man diligently watering this plant early in the morning while we were there. From a small plant, it has now grown to a big tree.
Some of the common names for this wild cherry or Muntingia Calabura plant are Calabur Tree, Jamaica Cherry and Strawberry Tree. Propagation of this plant can be done from seeds or cuttings. It is also dispersed by birds.
I was curious and one morning after I have finished my walking rounds, I walked over to this tree and took some photos. This photo was taken when the tree was about 6 feet tall.
Here is a close up of the leaves and the flowers. The flower petals are thin and white. It has yellow stamens. The leaves are covered with fine short hairs.
The tree has grown taller and bigger. Lately, I noticed some women under the tree, looking up and searching for the wild cherries. The ripe cherries are red in colour. Whatever cherries found higher up on the trees are for birds and the cherries found lower within reach are collected by humans.
The plant is known for its medicinal benefits. The cherries can be used for making jam and the leaves can be used for making tea. So far I have not tried tasting any of them.
Below are photos of some of my garden plants in full bloom.
Reddish orange Bauhinia and Yellow gold cups flowers
Lantana Camara and Periwinkle flowers.
Yellow gold cups blooming happily.
In order to keep the height in check, I have to occasionally trim back the branches.
These plants enjoy full sunlight.
These yellow gold cups look like trumpets.
Linking to Floral Bliss.
When you are fighting an enemy who attacks you in your own land,
blow the trumpets loudly.
The LORD your God will take notice of [remember] you and
will save you from your enemies.
(Numbers 10:9, Expanded Bible-EXB)
