Eugenia brasiliensis aka Brazil Cherry

Eugenia brasiliensis is an evergreen tree in the myrtle family. Its common names include grumichama and Brazilian cherry. It comes from eastern and southern Brazil. It grows in Atlantic rainforest, on flood plains and gentle slopes. People gather its fruit from wild trees and grow it in gardens. Growers also plant it in Florida, Hawaii, and Paraguay.

The tree grows slowly and can take a shrub form. One garden reference lists a height of 26 feet (8 m). Larger trees can reach 33–49 feet (10–15 m). Its dense crown can look oval or like a pyramid. The leaves are dark and glossy; new shoots have red tones. The short trunk reaches about 0.8–1.3 feet (0.25–0.40 m) across. Its narrow crown suits street planting, screens, and hedges. People also use it to help restore woodland.

White flowers grow at points along the stems. Chicago Botanic Garden lists bloom from May through August. Insects pollinate the flowers, and the tree draws birds and butterflies. Clusters of fruit turn deep red, purple, or almost black. The berries are round or slightly flattened, with thin skin. Their soft flesh tastes mildly tart, with a cherry-like flavor. Much of the taste comes from the skin. Eat the fruit fresh or use it in jam and jelly. Large seeds leave less flesh, and the sepals stay attached.

Grumichama grows best in warm, humid tropical or subtropical climates. Give it full sun or shade for part of the day. It accepts several soil types but prefers acid soil. Alkaline soil does not suit it. Soil should hold moisture yet let excess water drain away. Water during droughts; long dry spells harm the plant. Chicago Botanic Garden lists USDA zones 9–12. Mature trees can survive brief frost near 27°F (−3°C). Young shoots can suffer damage. Move container plants indoors before frost, into warm, humid, bright conditions.

Fresh seed loses viability within about six weeks. Seeds may sprout poorly, and seedlings grow very slowly. Cuttings and air layering offer other ways to raise plants. The bark and leaves contain tannins and fragrant oil. Brazilian folk medicine uses them for rheumatism and to promote urination. These reported uses do not establish medical benefit. The hard wood serves for cabinets, boxes, and carpentry. Useful Tropical Plants reports no known hazards.