Jaboticaba
Plinia cauliflora
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Pl. 6781 — Plinia cauliflora
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IOverview
Overview
Jaboticaba, scientifically known as Plinia cauliflora, is a small tree native to the subtropical regions of Brazil and Bolivia. This unique plant is valued for its edible fruit, which grows directly on the trunk and branches, a distinctive feature setting it apart from many other fruit-bearing trees. Jaboticabas thrive in moist, well-drained soils that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) and require full sun to produce their clusters of purple-black berries. Hardy in zones 10-12, these trees can grow up to 13 meters tall, making them a striking addition to subtropical gardens.
Quick answers
What is Jaboticaba?
Jaboticaba, scientifically known as Plinia cauliflora, is a small tree native to the subtropical regions of Brazil and Bolivia. This unique plant is valued for its edible fruit, which grows directly on the trunk and branches, a distinctive feature setting it apart from many other fruit-bearing trees.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Jaboticaba thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions with a minimum temperature range of 10-12°C. The tree can grow up to 13 meters tall and produces edible fruit. For successful cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist while providing ample sunlight.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
13.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Jaboticaba for the first time
8steps
Start with a jaboticaba tree for the easiest beginner approach.
- 1
What you'll need
A young jaboticaba sapling, well-draining soil, and a container or garden space.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when temperatures are mild and consistent.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a mix of light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. Ensure good drainage for containers.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling carefully to avoid damaging roots. Water thoroughly after planting.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in a sunny spot, avoiding direct midday sun.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilize lightly with organic compost every few months.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune to shape the tree and remove dead branches. Harvest fruit when they turn dark purple.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, not providing enough organic matter, neglecting pruning, and using chemical fertilizers.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: Drink
Other uses:Fire starterLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
4 native · 2 introduced
Distribution
4 native · 2 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 4 native· 2 introduced
Americas2 regions
native (1)Bolivia
introduced (1)Honduras
Broader regions
native:Brazil Northeast, Brazil South, Brazil Southeast
introduced:Gulf of Guinea Is.
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 · 67817565-1a23-4b15-ab24-90091c1996b3
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