Native & adapted

Grumichama

Eugenia brasiliensis

Also known as Brazil cherry · Grumixama · Anh đào ngọt Brazil

A compact Brazilian tree with glossy leaves and dark cherry-like fruit that tastes much like jaboticaba. Can be grown as a small tree or an edible hedge.

EdibleFruitingEvergreenContainer friendly

Landscape layersLower canopy · Hedging

Mature size10–15 ft tall and 8–10 ft wide

Climate fitUrban core · USDA 9b–10a · Valley suburbs · USDA 9a–9b

Plant spacing8–10 ft apart

FrostMature plants survive brief dips to about 26°F; young plants damaged near 30°F.

Special categoriesEDIBLE

Hardiness guidanceUSDA 9b–11; mature plants take brief dips to about 26°F

Winter chillNone

Typical harvestLate spring to early summer, about a month after flowering.

Before you plant

These conditions determine whether it will thrive.

Soil chemistry

Slightly acidic, rich, fast-draining soil. Add soil sulfur and compost.

Required microclimatePlacement is part of the growing system.

East-facing spot or filtered shade, sheltered from hot wind.

Right plant, right place

Will Grumichama grow at your Arizona property?

Slow growing. Good in a large container.

Best regional fit: Urban core · USDA 9b–10a, Valley suburbs · USDA 9a–9b.

Light

Sun exposure

Morning sun with afternoon shade from June through September, such as the east side of a house or under a taller nurse tree. Protect from frost on winter nights.

Water

Irrigation

Moderate to high and steady.

Fruit set

Pollination

Self-fertile.

Harvest

How to use it

Fresh, or in jams and pies.

Planting & stewardship

How to help Grumichama thrive

1
Shade from afternoon sun when it is hot.
2
Feed with an acid-forming fertilizer in spring and summer.
3
Keep soil evenly moist.
4
Net the plant as fruit ripens to keep birds off.

Read the horticultural reference ↗