Guabiyu
Myrcianthes pungens
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Pl. 61DD — Myrcianthes pungens
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IOverview
Overview
Guabiyu, scientifically known as Myrcianthes pungens, is a large shrub or small tree native to the subtropical and tropical regions of South America. It thrives in areas with light to partial sun exposure and requires moist soil that can be either sandy, medium, or clayey. Hardy in zones 10-12, this plant can grow up to 15 meters tall. Guabiyu is notable for its edible fruit and is found across a wide range including Argentina (Northeast and Northwest), Bolivia, Brazil (South, Southeast, and West-Central regions), and Paraguay and Uruguay. Its distinctive feature lies in the lightness of its form, making it adaptable to various landscape settings while also serving as an important food source in its native habitats.
Quick answers
What is Guabiyu?
Guabiyu, scientifically known as Myrcianthes pungens, is a large shrub or small tree native to the subtropical and tropical regions of South America. It thrives in areas with light to partial sun exposure and requires moist soil that can be either sandy, medium, or clayey.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Guabiyu thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions with a range of 10-12. The plant grows up to 15 meters tall and produces edible fruit. For successful cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist while providing ample sunlight. Propagation can be done through seeds or cuttings.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
15.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Guabiyu for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, sunny spot and basic care for your Guabiyu.
- 1
What you'll need
A suitable location, seeds or young plants, good quality soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light, medium, and heavy textures.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds outdoors after danger of frost has passed; or start young plants indoors before planting.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Protect from strong sun if necessary.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full to partial sunlight, and ensure consistent moisture. Prune lightly to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and maintain size.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, not providing enough sunlight, neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Guabiyu (Myrcianthes pungens) 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.
Other uses:Fire starterContainersLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
8 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
8 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 8 native
Americas3 regions
native (3)BoliviaParaguayUruguay
Broader regions
native:Argentina Northeast, Argentina Northwest, Brazil South, Brazil Southeast, Brazil West-Central
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 61ddbf5d-25b5-4f19-9157-512ae4163e61
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