Birthday
HydrangeasImagine a tree whose trunk and thick branches are completely covered in dark purple berries that look like grapes. This is jabuticaba, one of the most unusual fruit trees in the world. Here is why its fruit grows on the trunk, what it tastes like and whether jabuticaba can be grown in Ukraine.
About the tree
Jabuticaba (Plinia cauliflora, formerly Myrciaria cauliflora) is an evergreen tree in the myrtle family from south-east Brazil, where it grows in almost every backyard. It is also found in Paraguay, Bolivia and Argentina. The name comes from the Tupi language and is usually translated as “place of many tortoises”. In Brazil it is also called the Brazilian grape tree.
Why the fruit grows on the trunk
This is called cauliflory — flowers and fruit forming directly on the trunk and old branches. It occurs in many tropical plants, including cacao and some figs. In flowering season the jabuticaba trunk is covered in small white flowers, and about a month later berries ripen in their place. In a warm climate with good watering the tree can flower and fruit several times a year.
What the fruit is like
The berries are 3–4 cm across, with a thick, dark purple to almost black skin and juicy, sweet, translucent flesh around 1–4 seeds. Their taste is often compared to Concord-type grapes and lychee, and the skin is slightly astringent from tannins. The big problem is that the fruit starts to ferment within 2–4 days of picking, so it is almost never exported fresh. It is made into jams, jellies, juices, liqueurs and wine.
The fruit is rich in anthocyanins — the same pigments found in blackcurrants and blueberries. Brazilian folk medicine uses a decoction of the skins, but there is not yet enough scientific evidence of any healing effect, so enjoy jabuticaba as a tasty fruit rather than a remedy.
Can you grow jabuticaba at home?
Yes, but only as a tub or greenhouse plant: it grows slowly and cannot take frost. Seedlings usually start fruiting after 8–15 years; grafted plants sooner. It needs:
- bright light, and a sunny balcony or terrace in summer;
- acidic, open potting mix and plenty of soft water — jabuticaba loves moisture;
- high humidity;
- a bright winter spot no colder than 10 °C.
With its small leaves and attractive bark, jabuticaba is also a popular bonsai. For other exotic plants to grow at home, see growing pomegranate at home and growing kiwi from seed.
More amazing plants are waiting in the world’s most unusual trees.
FAQ
What does jabuticaba taste like?
Sweet with a little acidity, like Concord grapes and lychee; the skin is slightly tart.
Why isn’t jabuticaba sold in supermarkets?
The fruit starts fermenting just 2–4 days after picking, which makes it very hard to transport.
How long until jabuticaba bears fruit?
From seed usually 8–15 years; grafted plants a few years after grafting.
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Author: Maria Svitlovir
Graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Biology and Medicine (2001). BSc in Biology, MSc in Horticulture. Writes about plants, works at a garden centre selecting and repotting plants, and contributes to plant reference guides.
