Native & adapted

Pitomba

Eugenia luschnathiana

Also known as Pitomba cherry · Brazilian cherry · Pitombeira

A slow Brazilian tree in the Surinam cherry family with bright orange-yellow fruit that is soft, juicy and lightly acidic, like a small apricot.

EdibleFruitingEvergreenContainer friendly

Landscape layersLower canopy

Mature size10–20 ft tall and 10–15 ft wide

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

Plant spacing10–12 ft from other trees

FrostTolerates light frost near 30°F; damaged by hard freezes.

Special categoriesEDIBLE

Hardiness guidanceUSDA 10–11; tolerates light frost near 30°F

Winter chillNone

Typical harvestSummer.

Before you plant

These conditions determine whether it will thrive.

Soil chemistry

Slightly acidic, rich, fast-draining soil; add soil sulfur.

Required microclimatePlacement is part of the growing system.

East-facing or filtered shade spot, sheltered from frost.

Right plant, right place

Will Pitomba grow at your Arizona property?

Slow growing and attractive as a small specimen tree or container plant.

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 and steady.

Fruit set

Pollination

Self-fertile.

Harvest

How to use it

Fresh, or in jams and drinks.

Planting & stewardship

How to help Pitomba thrive

1
Shade from afternoon sun.
2
Feed with an acid-forming fertilizer.
3
Cover on frost nights.
4
Keep soil evenly moist.

Read the horticultural reference ↗