Guabiyu (Myrcianthes pungens)

Family: Myrtaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Endemic to Brazil, Guabiyu or Myrcianthes pungens is a semi-deciduous and slow-growing tree growing up to 20 m in height. It has a dense and round canopy and a crooked bole that can be about 40 cm in diameter. The leaves are simple and pointed. The flowers are white and located at the leaf axils. Guabiyu is grown throughout the southern part of South America mainly for its edible fruits and timber though it also has medicinal uses.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweet, pleasant flavour. — A succulent, juicy pulp with a sweet, pleasant flavour.; The dark purple, globose fruit is up to 25mm in diameter.

Habitat & North American Range

Semi-deciduous forests, the humid understorey of Araucaria forests and on open rocky slopes. (Zone 10)