Latin name - Eugenia brasiliensis

Grumichama is one of the most prominent members of a group of plants we call “Tropical Cherries”.  Not related to the northern cherry, Grumichama and its relatives originate in the Amazon region of South America. The fruit is the size of a large blueberry, with similar flavor and texture, but slightly sweeter.  Producing heavy crops in Spring and Summer,  Grumichama is also a handsome ornamental plant and fits well into manicured landscapes and Food Forests alike.

For small spaces or shaded areas, Grumichama is a great fit.  It’s compact, bushy, and slow-growing, capable of reaching 20 feet in height over time, but easily maintained around 8 ft or even shorter with routine trimming.  Grumichama loves water and rich soil, but can withstand occasional dry periods without a fuss.  The foliage is attractive, with new growth coming out shiny and scarlet red, maturing to a deep glossy green.  Grumichama blooms in Spring, with showy white flowers all over the tree.  Fun fact, the flowers smell like… bacon!

Shortly after blooming, fruit is formed, and takes about 7-8 weeks to mature.  Mature Grumichama trees fruit prolifically, and often make a second or third crop, extending the fruiting period from Spring to mid-Summer.  When ripening, the fruit changes color from green to red to deep purple, and is ready to be picked.  Full of vitamin A, vitamin C, and antioxidants, we enjoy eating Grumichama cherries by the handful or added to yogurt, cereal, or fruit salad.  They can also be cooked down into a delicious syrup just like blueberries, or dehydrated to preserve for later.

While many other fruit trees are a big commitment due to their size, Grumichama is a wonderful choice for those with limited space, or for container growing.  Visually, Grumichama appears to belong in a standard ornamental landscape, allowing residents of even the strictest HOAs to grow fruit under the radar… Take that, fruit tree haters!

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Size: Easily kept 8’ tall x 6’ wide with pruning.  If unpruned, up to 15-20 ft.

Sun Requirements:  Full sun to partial shade

Cold Hardy: 26 degrees

Harvest Season:  Spring/Summer

Watering requirements: Loves water but can withstand occasional dry periods, grows best with irrigation.

Food Forest Layer: Canopy, Sub Canopy, Understory, Shrub