Myrciaria cauliflora, Plinia cauliflora, Eugenia cauliflora, Jaboticaba, 5 seeds

The Jabuticaba tree (Plinia cauliflora) is a unique evergreen species that produces purple-black fruit with white pulp, which grows directly on its trunk. This characteristic is known as cauliflory. The fruit can be eaten raw or used to make various products such as jellies, jams, juice, and wine.

Native to Brazil, specifically in the states of Rio de Janeiro, Minas Gerais, Goiás, and São Paulo, this tree thrives in moist, rich soil with a slightly acidic pH. It can adapt to alkaline soils as well, provided it receives proper care and irrigation. The tree can reach a height of 15 meters if not pruned.

The leaves are initially salmon-pink but turn green as they mature. The flowers are white and grow directly from the trunk, a characteristic known as cauliflorous. In its natural habitat, the tree can produce flowers and fruit multiple times a year.

Jaboticabeira trees are tropical to subtropical plants that can tolerate mild frosts but not temperatures below 26°F (-3°C). They have a compact root system that makes them suitable for growing in pots or transplanting.

The fruit is a thick-skinned berry that measures 3-4 cm in diameter and has a sweet, gelatinous pulp with one to four large seeds. The seeds are recalcitrant and become unviable within 10 days when stored at room temperature.

How to grow Jaboticaba trees from seeds:

Jaboticaba trees are typically propagated from seeds in South America, which are often polyembryonic, producing 4-6 plants per seed. Germination occurs within 20-40 days. Selected strains can be reproduced through:

• Inarching (approach-grafting)
• Air-layering
• Side-veneer grafting

Budding is challenging due to the thin bark and hard wood, but tissue culture propagation has shown promise.

Production can begin:

4-15 years from seed (average 8-10 years)

6-7 years from vegetatively propagated material

Jaboticaba is a unique and rewarding tree to cultivate, particularly in containers. With its slow growth rate, it can thrive in potsfor many years. Its small leaves and compact growth habit make it an ideal candidate for bonsai cultivation, and some mature specimens can even produce fruit. Its compact size also makes it an excellent choice for incorporating into small garden spaces, adding charm and beauty to any landscape.

Note: M. cauliflora produces apomictic, polyembryonic seeds, meaning that all seedlings are genetically identical to the mother tree.

Germination method:

1. Plant the seeds immediately at a depth of 1 inch or less in a moist, acidic medium with good drainage.
2. Keep young seedlings in shade and gradually introduce them to full sun.
3. Use neutral to acidic water for irrigation.
4. Feed with light fertilizer (NPK 4-3-4), especially organic fertilizer.
5. For the first two years, keep seedlings in a cold frame or greenhouse.

IMPOTANT NOTICE!!!
We appreciate your interest in Jaboticaba seeds!
Due to their recalcitrant nature, we only sell them in person (pick up from Mgarr, Malta). We apologize for the inconvenience to our valued international customers.