Myrciaria glomerata (Cabelluda)

Note: the following latin synonyms for Cabelluda - Eugenia cabelluda, Eugenia tomentosa, Myrciaria glomerata, Paramyrciaria glomerata - may be taxonomically incorrect, although in some sources excepted. Refer to pictures for better identification of this plant.

Cabelluda is a large shrub or small tree, 10-20 feet in height, with multiple thin trunks, very handsome and of value as an ornamental plant. The young stems and leaves are pubescent. Small white flowers are perfect and occur in axillary clusters. Fruits are about 1 inch in diameter, round, yellow when fully ripe, pubescent, with one or two seeds. Cabelluda fruits are delicious. They resemble large gooseberries in appearance and are sweet and aromatic, with a flavor similar to apricot. These are eaten fresh, and can also be used for juices and jams. The fruits are very nutritive and rich in vitamins. Fruiting occurs in 2-3 years, when the plant is hardly 3-4 feet tall.

Cabelluda grows best in moist, fertile soils, and fruits well in full sun as well as partial shade. As a tropical tree, it is fairly cold tolerant and can withstand temperatures as low as upper 20's for a short period. Soft young leaves and twigs may get some cold damage, however even if severely damaged, in Spring the plant readily grows back from the roots.

Cabelluda is rare in plant collections, however it is popular in cultivation around Rio de Janeiro, Brazil where its fruit ripen in October-November.