Myrcianthes pungens - (O.Berg) D.Legrand

(O.Berg) D.Legrand

Guabiyu

Myrtaceae Edible: Fruit

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Paulo C. O. Cunha

gbif· cc-by

Paulo C. O. Cunha

gbif· cc-by-nc

nicolasweissheimer

Description

Myrcianthes pungens is a deciduous Tree growing to 15 m (49ft) by 15 m (49ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The flowers are pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Uses

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

Medicinal Uses

Miscellany. The leaves are used medicinally.

Distribution

Southern S. America - Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, southern and eastern Brazil and Bolivia.

Where It Grows

SOUTHERN AMERICA: Brazil, Paraná, Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay,

Cultivation

A plant of tropical and subtropical areas, mainly at higher elevations up to 2,200 metres in the tropics. Prefers a position in dappled shade. A fairly slow-growing plant, it is less than 2 metres tall when 2 years old.

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a partially shaded position in a nursery seedbed or in individual containers. A germination rate in excess of 50% can be expected, with the seed sprouting within 30 - 40 days. Seedlings develop slowly and will take at least another 8 months before being ready to plant out.

Other Uses

Charcoal Containers Fuel Furniture Miscellany Wood. Other Uses The wood is straight-grained, compact, heavy, very elastic and very durable. It is used for fine cabinet making, turnery, construction, tool handles etc. The wood is used to make charcoal.