How to Grow and Care for Jerusalem cherry

Jerusalem cherry, also known as Madeira winter cherry, Winter cherry, False jerusalem cherry, Christmas cherry, Ornamental pepper

Jerusalem cherry requires a moderate care regimen with a focus on sufficient lighting and careful watering. It thrives in bright, indirect light and requires watering when the top inch of soil feels dry. Special care points include avoiding overwatering to prevent root rot and handling with care due to its toxicity if ingested.

Watering schedule: Every week

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Toxic to Human & Pets

In This Article

Planting and Growing Jerusalem cherry

Toughness	High
Care Level	Medium
Care Difficulty	Easy
Lifespan	Perennial
Watering Schedule	Every week
Sunlight Requirements	Full sun
Soil Type	Potting Mix, Garden Soil
Soil pH	5.5-7
Planting Time	Spring, Summer
Hardiness Zones	9-11
Toxicity	Toxic to Human & Pets

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The Toxicity of Jerusalem cherry

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More General Info About Jerusalem cherry

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Jerusalem cherry is characterized by its evergreen, bushy shrub form with dark green, elliptical to lanceolate leaves that have undulating edges. Its wiry stems can be either smooth or sparsely hairy. Summer brings forth clusters of tiny, white or light purple star-shaped flowers. As the seasons turn to fall and winter, jerusalem cherry produces distinctive, oval berry-like fruits, often in striking shades of red, orange, or yellow, resembling cherries around 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter, though they are not edible.