Hortiforum

General Info – Grumichama, Brazilian Cherry, Brazil Cherry

The tropical counterpart to the Sweet Cherry (Prunus Avium), Grumichama stands out as a prolific bearer of delectable, cherry-sized fruits—an ideal alternative for tropical-subtropical climates where traditional cherries may not thrive.
Grumichama fruits mature into an alluring deep-purple colour that is striking to the eye of both humans and birds alike, from which they may need netting. Boasting a juicy, aromatic, sub-acidic pulp, Grumichama fruits have a flavor reminiscent of Guava, Jaboticaba, Plum, and Cherry, making them an irresistible choice as a fresh and delightful snack from the garden. Apart from being enjoyed fresh, Grumichama can be transformed into jams and jellies. Fruits have a moderate flesh to seed ratio and distinctively retain prominent sepals. Self-Pollinating and capable of having multiple crops across the year, one Grumichama plant can provide plentiful fresh fruit under optimal conditions.
Beyond its tasty fruits, the Grumichama is a highly ornamental plant, featuring glossy leaves that are coppery-rose coloured when young and showy white flowers that transform it into a captivating spectacle when in full bloom. With its dense form, the Grumichama naturally forms a shrub suitable for hedging, provided it is shielded from strong winds. Trees can also form small trees up to 6m tall and develop a dense crown with a compact, upright form.
Grumichama are native to the coastal rainforests of southern Brazil and prefer a subtropical-tropical climate but can also be grown in warm temperate climates. To achieve optimal fruit set and cropping, ample water during fruiting and flowering is recommended, although the plants exhibit tolerance to low rainfall at the expense of reduced fruiting. Grumichama prefer a fertile, well-draining, slightly acidic loam soil, and have a moderate salt tolerance. With a cold tolerance down to -3 degrees Celsius, it is well-suited for temperate coastal climates across Australia, in addition to its preference for subtropical and tropical environments. Plants can succeed across Coastal Mainland Australia, thriving in climates such as Cairns but being viable as far south as Melbourne.
With their adaptability to various climates, ornamental appearance, and delicious cherry-like fruit, the Grumichama stands alongside Jaboticabas, Cherry Guava, Acerola, and Pitangatuba as an essential subtropical berry to cultivate.

Plant Profile/Properties