Rainforest plum
Eugenia candolleana
Family: Myrtaceae
What it is like
A tree. It loses its leaves during the year. It grows 4-7 m tall. The leaves are sword shape and taper to the tip. They are somewhat leathery and smooth on both surfaces. They are 5-9 cm long and shiny. The flowers are in groups in the axils of leaves. There are a few, small, white flowers. The fruit are black and shiny. They are about 3 cm across. The pulp is thick and firm. It has a sweet flavour. There are 1-2 seeds that can easily be separated from the pulp.
Where it is found
A tropical plant. It grows naturally in the Atlantic forest in Brazil.
Countries/locations it is found in
Brazil (country/location of origin), South America
How it is used for food
The fruit are eaten raw. They are also used for marmalade.
It is a cultivated fruit tree. It is a popular fruit.
Edible parts
Fruit
How it is grown
Plants are grown from seed. The seeds are collected from ripe fruit and the pulp removed. The seeds need to be planted fresh. Seedlings emerge in 40-50 days.
Plants grow slowly.
Its other names
Local names
Ameixa-de-mata, Cambui, Murta