Surinam cherry offers both fruit and hedge possibilities in your garden

5 things to do in the garden this week:

Fruit. Surinam cherry (Eugenia uniflora) is a large South American shrub or small tree that produces a crop this time of year and makes a wonderful hedge. This highly ornamental species yields attractively ribbed, spicy, crimson fruit that turns black when ripe. In its native Brazil, its scented leaves are spread on the floor since the aroma they release — when trod upon — keeps away flies. Surinam cherry is also highly suitable for container growing.