grumichama

Grumichama, or Eugenia brasiliensis, is a small evergreen tree in the myrtle family native to southeastern Brazil. It is grown for its ornamental value and its edible fruit, which gives the plant its common name grumichama as well as its Brazilian heritage. The tree typically reaches 5–8 meters in height and forms a dense, rounded canopy. Leaves are opposite, oval, and glossy, about 2–6 cm long. White, fragrant flowers appear in clusters, followed by small round berries about 8–15 mm in diameter. When ripe, the fruit's skin is dark purple to black and the flesh is sweet-tart with a single seed.

In cultivation, grumichama prefers well-drained soil and a sunny to lightly shaded position. It tolerates heat and humidity but is frost-sensitive, making it most suitable for tropical to subtropical climates and protected sites in temperate regions. Propagation is possible from seeds or semi-ripe cuttings. In its native range, fruiting occurs seasonally and fruits are eaten fresh or used in jams, jellies, and desserts; outside of Brazil, it is grown mainly as an ornamental or landscape tree where conditions permit.

See also: Surinam cherry, jabuticaba (related Myrtaceae fruiting trees).