Jaboticaba is an evergreen shrub or small tree bearing masses of purplish-black fruit. They grow directly on the branches and are the size of a grape.

The fruit is round with a shiny tough skin covering a white or rose-tinted pulp. While the skin is tart, the juicy pulp tastes sweet, described as a mix of lychee, pineapple and banana.

The tree is highly ornamental, with its patterned trunk and striking clusters of honey-scented flowers and fruit. Jaboticaba can flower several times per year and the development from flower to fruit can occur within a few weeks.

Other uses: wood

The fruit can be eaten fresh, squeezed for juice, fermented into wine/liqueurs, or made into jams and desserts.

Flowers and fruit grow directly on the bark of the trunk and branches.

These slow-growing trees are native to Brazil and can take years to fruit.


Acknowledgements

Council thanks the Friends of Sugarworld Gardens (FOSG) for their support in compiling this plant information. FOSG members and volunteers are involved with a variety of gardening activities such as general garden detailing, pruning the orchard, weeding and mulching. Read more about FOSG.

Last Updated: 10 December 2025

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