Jaboticaba
Plinia cauliflora
Myrtaceae family
Also known as the Brazilian Grape Tree and Jabuticaba.
The tree is a slow-growing evergreen that can reach a height of 15m if not pruned. The leaves are salmon-pink when young, turning green as they mature.
The fruit, which grows directly on the trunk, has a thick, purple skin that encases a sweet, white or pink gelatinous flesh. You can eat the fruit with the skin on, but the skin is chewy and tart so you might prefer it without. It is often used to make jams, jelly, tarts, juice, or strong wines. High in fibre & zinc, rich in antioxidants. Research has also shown the peel is a source of bioactive compounds with prebiotic effects - in lay terms, it’s great for your gut health!
Due to its short shelf-life, fresh Jaboticaba fruit is rare in markets outside areas of cultivation.
Native to Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, Peru and Bolivia.
Tree maintenance
Plinia cauliflora
Myrtaceae family
Also known as the Brazilian Grape Tree and Jabuticaba.
The tree is a slow-growing evergreen that can reach a height of 15m if not pruned. The leaves are salmon-pink when young, turning green as they mature.
The fruit, which grows directly on the trunk, has a thick, purple skin that encases a sweet, white or pink gelatinous flesh. You can eat the fruit with the skin on, but the skin is chewy and tart so you might prefer it without. It is often used to make jams, jelly, tarts, juice, or strong wines. High in fibre & zinc, rich in antioxidants. Research has also shown the peel is a source of bioactive compounds with prebiotic effects - in lay terms, it’s great for your gut health!
Due to its short shelf-life, fresh Jaboticaba fruit is rare in markets outside areas of cultivation.
Native to Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, Peru and Bolivia.
Tree maintenance
- Pruning - thin the bushy interior, and keep the tree to a reasonable height, as the tree can grow to 3-14 m tall.
- Fertilise 2-3 times a year with an organic all round fertiliser.
- Keep well mulched.
- Prefers a rich soil.
- Water during dry periods.