Singapore holly (Malpighia coccigera)

Also known as: Miniature holly, Wax malphighia

The shrub you're referring to is likely the Singapore holly (Malpighia coccigera). This low-growing evergreen features dark green, holly-like leaves, even though it isn't a true holly. During the summer, it produces white or pink, trumpet-shaped flowers, followed by red berries that attract birds. It's also popular as a bonsai tree.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Singapore holly

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Height

30 cm to 91 cm

Spread

60 cm to 1.5 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Pink White

Images of Singapore holly

Quickly Identify Singapore holly

Identify Malpighia coccigera by its small, glossy, dark green leaves with spiny edges, and its small, five-petaled pink flowers. The plant also produces small, red, berry-like fruits.

Scientific Classification of Singapore holly

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Malpighiales

Family

Barbados cherry

Genus

Malpighia

Species

Singapore holly

Planting and Growing of Singapore holly

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 10 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-80℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Singapore holly?

When watering Malpighia coccigera, aim to drench the soil thoroughly while ensuring it does not become waterlogged. The soil should feel moist but not soggy, resembling a well-wrung sponge. Ensuring even moisture throughout the soil encourages healthy root growth and plant vitality.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Singapore holly? ›

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What are the symptoms of an overwatered Singapore holly? ›

How to save an overwatered Singapore holly? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Singapore holly?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Preferring partial sun to full sun, this plant thrives when it gets a healthy dose of 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. This light support ensures optimal growth and flowering efficiency.

Optimal Sun Exposure Question ›

Solution for Ideal Lighting ›

Benefits of Ideal Sunlight ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Singapore holly?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 80℉

What is the ideal temperature range for growing Malpighia coccigera? The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 65°F and 80°F. It promotes optimal growth and ensures the plant's physiological processes function properly, leading to healthy foliage and flowering.

What Soil is Best for Singapore holly?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Malpighia coccigera thrives in well-drained soil that prevents waterlogging. Proper drainage is crucial for root health, reducing the risk of root rot and promoting vigorous growth. This plant does well in soil with moderate fertility, avoiding overly rich soils that can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruiting. Incorporating organic matter like compost enhances soil structure and nutrient availability, benefiting the plant by promoting healthier leaves and blossoms.

How to Fertilize Singapore holly?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Malpighia coccigera, use a balanced 10-10-10 liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply 50 ml per plant, ensuring that the soil is moist before application to avoid any root burn.

How to Prune Singapore holly?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Start by identifying and cutting away any dead or diseased branches to keep the shrub healthy and vibrant. Next, focus on shaping the plant by trimming the longer, overgrown stems down to the nodes, creating a more compact form. Finally, trim back the tips of the stems sparingly to encourage branching and flower production, leaving enough foliage for photosynthesis. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Singapore holly plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Choose healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings. The stems should be flexible but mature, usually at least 4 to 6 inches long. This ensures that the cuttings have enough stored nutrients to support new root growth.

Prepare a well-draining growing medium such as a mix of perlite and peat moss. The medium should be moist but not waterlogged, as excessive moisture can lead to rot. Fill containers with this medium to provide a supportive environment for rooting.

Dip the cut end of each cutting in rooting hormone, then gently insert it into the prepared growing medium. Ensure that at least one-third of the cutting is buried in the medium, providing stability and promoting root formation.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Singapore holly plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Malpighia coccigera needs repotting when you notice roots poking through the drainage holes, indicating that the plant has outgrown its current pot. Repotting this shrub during its active growing season in spring or summer promotes robust root development. Additionally, if the soil appears degraded or no longer retains moisture efficiently, it could be time to repot.

Select a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid waterlogging. Ensure the pot has ample drainage holes to prevent root rot. A clay or terracotta pot can enhance moisture evaporation and is preferable for preventing fungal diseases. This approach helps in maintaining an ideal balance between moisture and air circulation for the roots.

A well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix is ideal for Malpighia coccigera. Opt for a blend containing peat moss, perlite, and pine bark to ensure good drainage and air flow. Such a mix prevents waterlogged conditions while retaining enough moisture to nourish the plant, aiding in the development of healthy roots.