Skip to content
IIIFolio · plant profile№ 16DCedible
Data provenancePermapeopleTreflePFAFPOWOreviewed 19 Oct 2026methodology → read

Bacupari

Garcinia brasiliensis
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
edibletreesedibleedible fruitnative amshade toleranttree
Updated·Quick Q&A →
Garden journal pausedUse profile notes below
Garcinia brasiliensis (Bacupari) — botanical photograph
Pl. 16DC — Garcinia brasiliensis
Garcinia brasiliensisGarcinia brasiliensisGarcinia brasiliensisGarcinia brasiliensisGarcinia brasiliensisGarcinia brasiliensisGarcinia brasiliensisGarcinia brasiliensisGarcinia brasiliensisGarcinia brasiliensisGarcinia brasiliensisGarcinia brasiliensisGarcinia brasiliensisGarcinia brasiliensis
I

Overview

Bacupari, scientifically known as Garcinia brasiliensis, is a tree native to the Southeastern region of Brazil. This plant thrives in habitats that offer light to partial shade and prefers moist conditions with well-drained soil types ranging from sandy to clay. Bacupari is notable for its edible fruit, which can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. Typically, the fruit is consumed fresh but may also be dried for later use. The tree can grow up to 6 meters tall, making it an attractive ornamental addition to gardens while also providing sustenance through its fruit. Bacupari is hardy in zones 10-12 and is known for its utility as a fire starter and lumber source. Its ability to grow in a variety of soil types and its slow growth rate make it adaptable to different cultivation environments. While primarily recognized for its edible fruit, Bacupari also serves as an ornamental tree, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of landscapes.

Quick answers

What is Bacupari?

Bacupari, scientifically known as Garcinia brasiliensis, is a tree native to the Southeastern region of Brazil. This plant thrives in habitats that offer light to partial shade and prefers moist conditions with well-drained soil types ranging from sandy to clay.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Bacupari, or Garcinia brasiliensis, thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions, specifically zones 10-12. For optimal growth, keep the soil consistently moist. This plant can reach a height of 6 meters and is known for its edible fruit. Propagate Bacupari through seeds or cuttings.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
6.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Bacupari for the first time

8steps

Start with Bacupari by ensuring it gets plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Bacupari saplings, garden gloves, a trowel.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring or early summer when temperatures are mild.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, and heavy clay. Ensure good drainage.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant saplings directly into the garden after all danger of frost has passed.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun or partial shade, especially in hot climates. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches as needed. Harvest fruit when they are fully ripe.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in poorly drained soil, not providing enough sunlight.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Bacupari (Garcinia brasiliensis) is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. Typically, the fruit is consumed fresh but may also be dried for later use. Skip
Other uses:Fire starterLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across0 continents· 1 native
Broader regions
native:Brazil Southeast
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Garcinia brasiliensis (Bacupari) — botanical photograph
Bacupari (Garcinia brasiliensis)
XI

Explore further

Companion planting
Growing zone
XII

About this entry

Last updated
Citation
How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · 16dcc112-49f6-47d0-85d7-072ba8a4fc4c
Decision aid
Choosing between Bacupari and something else?
Compare with another plant

Continue reading

❦❦❦❦
Endpaper · archive updates

Get archive updates

Occasional email when substantial new content lands — plant profiles, seasonal growing notes, folk-remedy additions. Free, no tracking, unsubscribe anytime.

Newsletter returning soon.
We are rebuilding the update list around a lightweight editorial workflow. New dispatches will resume after the next content review cycle.
iCare notes