Hortiforum

General Info – Cambui, Camboim

A rarely cultivated member of the prodigious Myrtaceae family. Cambuí has a clear relationship to Rumberry, both in appearance and size, as they belong to the same genus, Myrciaria. The colourful berries, ranging from 1 to 2 cm in diameter, come in both red and black varieties and grow attractively along the branches when in fruit. They have a distinctive, slightly translucent quality and contain a single seed. The tasty berries have a pleasant balance of sweet and sour flavours, and can be eaten fresh or used to make jellies, jams, pies and even wine.
Cambuí is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of South America, and is especially notable in Brazil’s Restinga ecosystem, where it thrives in sandy, acidic, and nutrient-poor soils. Though it grows relatively slowly, its compact size makes it ideal for container cultivation. Cambuí prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate both partial shade and full sun.
Cambuí forms a compact shrub to small tree, typically growing between 2 to 6 metres tall, with the potential to reach up to 10 metres. Its growth habit resembles that of other Myrciaria species such as Blue Grape and Camu Camu, developing a dense form—particularly when grown in full sun. It produces small white Myrtaceae flowers that cover the branches and attract a range of pollinators, while its fruit is a favourite among birds. With its pinnate green foliage and smooth grey bark that flakes and peels much like that of the Jaboticaba, Cambuí is well-suited to ornamental landscaping and can even be cultivated as a bonsai.

Plant Profile/Properties