Tahitian Gooseberry Tree

Phyllanthus acidus

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Phyllanthaceae
Genus:
Phyllanthus
Species:
Phyllanthus acidus

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Shrub , Tree
Height:
20-40 ft
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
mar, apr, may, jun, jul, aug
Bloom Colors:
white, yellow

Native Range

United States: Florida, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Cacocharis cymotoma, Melanchroia geometroides, white-tipped black (Melanchroia chephise)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
5.5 - 6.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
consistently moist
Notes:
Prefers organic matter-rich soils