Habitat: native to the hilly region around Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais
Description: This shrub or small tree from Brazil has an unusual means of bearing its fruit. The grape-sized, dark bluish-purple-black fruit are borne directly on the trunk or larger branches (cauliflory). This slow-growing plant takes 8 to 10 years to produce fruit unless it is a grafted tree, which reduces the period. Fully grown, the tree bears several crops per year. The fruit is worth the wait, being juicy, grape-like in appearance and taste. It is used in jelly, or as a fine wine, or eaten out of hand. It can withstand temperatures of 26 degrees F. Propagated by seed or grafting. Air layers have rarely been successful.
Uses: It is used in jelly, or as a fine wine, or eaten out of hand. The astringent decoction of the sun-dried skins is prescribed in Brazil as a treatment for hemoptysis, asthma, diarrhea and dysentery; also as a gargle for chronic inflammation of the tonsils. Such use may also lead to excessive consumption of tannin (carcinogenic if taken over a long period of time)
IMPORTANT NOTE:Plant Uses are for informational purposes only. EEB Greenhouses assume no responsibility for adverse effects from the use of any plants referred to on this site. Always seek advice from a professional before using any plant medicinally.
Culture: It can withstand temperatures of 26 degrees F. Propagated by seed or grafting. Air layers have rarely been successful.