Malpighia emarginata

Native from Mexico to northern Colombia, this tropical shrub or small tree belongs to the Malpighiaceae family. It produces small pink flowers and red, cherry-like fruits. The edible fruits are especially rich in vitamin C. Flowers can appear intermittently through the warmer months, and the plant grows naturally in seasonally dry tropical habitats. The flowers produce oils collected by specialized bees. In Brazil, Centris and Epicharis bees are effective pollinators, and good fruit production depends on their visits. Photographed in Colombia.