Jaboticaba (Plinia cauliflora)

GENERAL INFORMATION

• A popular fruit bearer in its native Brazil, Jaboticaba’s name is derived from the Tupi term “jabotim,” which means “like turtle fat” in reference to its fruit pulp.
• In Brazil, the tree thrives from sea level to about 3,000 feet in altitude.
• They are members of the myrtle family, Myrtaceae.
• It is a slow-growing tree or shrub that reaches heights of between 10 and 45 feet.
• They are frost intolerant and sensitive to salinity. Jaboticaba fruit trees are related to the Surinam Cherry, Java Plum, and Guava.
• Like the guava, the thin outer bark of the tree flakes off, leaving lighter colored patches.
• They are very interesting trees in that they bear fruit on old-growth trunks and branches, making the tree look much like it’s covered with purple cysts.

SOIL REQUIREMENT

• It is best in rich deep soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
• Although it is not well adapted to alkaline soils, it may be grown successfully by mulching and applying necessary nutrient sprays containing iron.
• The tree is not tolerant of salty or poorly drained soil.

FEEDING/FERTILIZER REQUIREMENT

• For young plants, half ratio fertilizer at monthly intervals will speed the plant's very slow growth rate.
• Any well-balanced fertilizer applied three times per year will keep the plant healthy.
• Because of its shallow root system, it is suggested that a series of small holes be dug and filled with organic material around the plant's base.
• The organic material can contain a balanced fertilizer which will be released during irrigation.

LIGHT REQUIREMENT

• Jaboticaba trees are will take full sun or some shade and are small enough fit into many parts of the garden landscape.

WATER REQUIREMENT

• Water should be supplied as needed to maintain good soil moisture and prevent wilting, but constant flooding is undesirable.
• As the root system is somewhat shallow, irrigation is usually required when the upper inch or two of soil become dry.

REPOTTING SERVICES