Jabuticaba facts for kids

A Jabuticaba tree with fruit growing on its trunk.

Jabuticaba (scientific name: Plinia cauliflora), also called the Brazilian grapetree, is a unique tree from the Myrtaceae family. It is native to Brazil in South America. What makes the jabuticaba tree so special is how its flowers and fruits grow directly on its trunk and branches! When it's full of fruit, the tree can look like it's covered in purple spots.

The jabuticaba fruit looks a lot like a thick-skinned, deep-purple grape. Inside, the fruit is sweet and juicy, with either pink or white flesh. You'll find a few large seeds inside this tasty pulp. People often eat the fruit fresh, but it's also used to make delicious tarts, jams, wines, and sweet drinks called liqueurs.

What is the Jabuticaba Tree?

The jabuticaba tree is known for its unusual way of growing fruit. Unlike most fruit trees where fruit grows on small branches, jabuticaba fruits grow right on the main trunk and thick branches. This special way of growing is called cauliflory. It means "stem-flowering."

Where Does Jabuticaba Grow?

Jabuticaba trees are originally from Brazil. They thrive in warm, tropical climates. You can find them growing naturally in many parts of South America. People in these areas have used jabuticaba fruit for a very long time, much like how people in other parts of the world use grapes.

What Does Jabuticaba Fruit Look Like?

The fruit of the jabuticaba tree is round and about 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5 to 4 cm) across. It has a thick, dark purple skin, which makes it look very similar to a large grape. When you bite into it, you'll find a soft, juicy pulp inside. This pulp can be either white or a light pink color. Each fruit usually contains one to four large, hard seeds.

How is Jabuticaba Used?

Jabuticaba fruit is very popular in its native regions. Most people enjoy eating the fresh fruit straight from the tree. It has a sweet and slightly tangy flavor. Beyond eating it fresh, the fruit is also used in many other ways:

• Jams and Jellies: The sweet pulp is perfect for making tasty jams and jellies.
• Tarts and Desserts: It can be baked into delicious tarts and other sweet treats.
• Drinks: Jabuticaba is often made into refreshing juices, and even fermented into wines and liqueurs, similar to how grapes are used.

Images for kids

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  Leaves of Plinia cauliflora

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  Jaboticaba bonsai

See also

In Spanish: Guapurú para niños