History
The acerola, whose scientific name is Malpighia emarginata, originates from the Yucatán region of Mexico and is believed to have later spread throughout Latin America. It may have been brought to the Caribbean archipelago by the Carib Indians.
It owes its name to the Spanish conquistadors, who reportedly named it this way upon arriving in the Lesser Antilles, in reference to the azérole found in Spain.
In Martinique, it is called “cerise pays” or “cerise acérola,” while outside the island, it is known as “West Indian cherry” or “Barbados cherry.”
Also present in the Amazon rainforest, it was traditionally used by Indigenous peoples to treat diarrhea, sore throat, and liver disorders.
Varieties
There are many varieties, especially in Brazil, although the exact number remains unknown.
The West Indian cherry tree is an evergreen shrub belonging to the Malpighiaceae family. Acerola grows naturally in the tropical regions of the Caribbean and South America, particularly in Peru and in the Amazon forests of Brazil and Venezuela. It is also present in the French Antilles, where it is called cerisier‑pays.
The leaves are opposite, oval or elliptical, and end in a sharp tip.
The bright red flowers bloom three times a year and are grouped in axillary inflorescences.
Acerola fruit has a tart flavor. The fruits ripen shortly after flowering. Because they are sensitive to heat, they must be handled and stored with great care.
There is also a species called Malpighia martinicensis Jacq., which grows in dry coastal forests. It is distinguished by its young leaves with stiff hairs and its smaller cherries.
Other names are:
Malpighia emarginata:
- Cerise pays, cerise acérola (Martinique)
- Cerise des Antilles, cerise de Barbade (other French‑speaking regions)
- Barbados cherry, West Indian cherry (English)
- Acerola, cereza (Spanish)
- Siriz (Creole)
Malpighia martinicensis Jacq.:
- Dog cherry (English)
- Siriz gwo kot (Creole)
Medicinal properties
Acerola is an exceptional source of vitamin C. It contains 20 to 30 times more vitamin C than an orange, making it one of the richest fruits in this vitamin.
In medicine, acerola cherry is used in cases of functional fatigue and to help regain weight after weight loss. More generally, it is prescribed for colds and to combat tiredness.
Acerola is found in capsules, chewable tablets, powders, and liquid solutions used in vitamin C supplements.
Uses
In Martinique, acerola is used in juices and cocktails, ice creams and sorbets, but the fruit is often eaten raw.
