Jaboticaba Grauda facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Jaboticaba Grauda |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Plinia
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| Species: |
grandifolia
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Plinia grandifolia is a special kind of tree, often called the large jaboticaba (or jaboticaba graúda in Portuguese). It belongs to the same plant family as eucalyptus and guava, which is called Myrtaceae. This tree is only found in one place: the beautiful Atlantic Rainforest in south-eastern Brazil.
It usually grows in the shady areas under bigger trees, a part of the forest called the "understory." The Plinia grandifolia tree can reach heights of 4 to 8 meters (about 13 to 26 feet). It's famous for its tasty, dark-purple fruits, which are about the size of a large marble, around 15 to 25 millimeters (0.6 to 1 inch) across.
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What is Plinia grandifolia?
Plinia grandifolia is a type of plant that produces fruit. It's known for its unique way of growing fruit directly on its trunk and branches, a process called Cauliflory. This makes the tree look very interesting when it's full of ripe fruit.
Where Does It Grow?
This tree is endemic to south-eastern Brazil. This means it naturally grows nowhere else in the world. It thrives in the Atlantic Rainforest, which is a very old and important forest along Brazil's coast. The tree prefers to grow in the forest's "understory." This is the layer of vegetation that grows beneath the main canopy of taller trees. It's a bit like living in the shade of a big umbrella.
What Does It Look Like?
The Plinia grandifolia tree is a medium-sized tree. It typically grows to be between 4 and 8 meters (about 13 to 26 feet) tall. Its leaves are green and help the tree make its own food using sunlight. The most exciting part of the tree is its fruit.
The Fruit
The fruit of the Plinia grandifolia is round and dark-purple when it's ripe. It's quite small, usually between 15 and 25 millimeters (0.6 to 1 inch) in diameter. These fruits are edible and are often enjoyed fresh. They have a sweet and slightly tart taste, similar to other jaboticaba fruits. Because they grow directly on the trunk and branches, they are easy to pick.
Why Is It Important?
The Plinia grandifolia is an important part of the Atlantic Rainforest ecosystem. It provides food for animals in the forest. For people, it's a source of delicious fruit.
Conservation Status
The Plinia grandifolia is currently listed as "Near Threatened" (NT) by the IUCN. This means that while it's not in immediate danger of disappearing, its population might become threatened in the future if conservation efforts are not continued. Protecting its natural home, the Atlantic Rainforest, is very important for the survival of this unique tree.
