Guabiju - Myrcianthes pungens

If you are looking to grow an unusually awesome fruit tree that is both uniquely delicious and a show stopper, then you'll want to grow Guabiju! It has been one of the easiest trees to grow. 

The fruits are on the smaller side, in the range of a large blueberry or small grape. The skin is a dark purple with a contrasting bright orange flesh which has a spiced fruity flavor. 

While this tree can be grown and fruited in a container and shade, it really takes off when in the ground under full sun.

The tree always looks gorgeous, but is most stunning during the new growth flushes, when the new leaves range from red to deep burgundy.

Overview

Guabiju is a rare and highly ornamental South American fruit tree prized for its attractive evergreen foliage and flavorful, dark purple fruit. Native to Brazil, Uruguay, and parts of Argentina, Myrcianthes pungens produces small, round fruit with a sweet, mildly spicy flavor that sets it apart from more common tropical fruits. Its cold tolerance and elegant form make it a standout choice for home gardeners and collectors alike.

Fruit Characteristics

Guabiju fruit ripens to a deep purple or nearly black color and features juicy flesh with a pleasantly sweet flavor and subtle aromatic notes. The taste is often described as rich and complex, making the fruit enjoyable fresh and suitable for jams, jellies, and specialty desserts.

Growth Habit & Ornamental Value

This species forms a compact to medium-sized evergreen tree with dense branching and glossy leaves. In addition to its fruiting qualities, guabiju is valued for its ornamental appeal and can be used as a landscape specimen or privacy planting. Its relatively slow growth and manageable size make it well suited for home gardens.

Growing Conditions

Guabiju performs best in warm temperate to subtropical climates and prefers:

• Full sun to partial shade

• Well-draining soil

• Regular watering while young

Once established, it is moderately drought tolerant and more cold hardy than many tropical fruit trees, making it adaptable to a wider range of growing regions.

Ideal for Home Gardeners & Collectors

Guabiju is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a unique, lesser-known fruit tree with excellent ornamental value and reliable fruit quality. Its rarity and adaptability also make it a prized addition for collectors of South American fruit species.

Shipped with Care

Nature’s Candy Fruit Tree Nursery, LLC carefully selects and packs guabiju trees to ensure they arrive healthy and ready to grow. We ship nationwide where climate conditions allow.