Hortiforum

General Info – Peanut Butter Fruit, Caferana

Originating from the tropics of the Americas, the Peanut Butter Fruit earns its moniker fittingly, captivating with its peculiar name, delectable fruit, and exquisite appearance.
A neat and tidy ornamental addition to any garden, Peanut Butter Fruit trees are well-deserving of a position for their ornamental attractiveness. Plants can reach heights of up to 6 metres but are easily maintained at smaller sizes, adaptable to either a tree or shrub form and can be grown to a fruiting size in a container or large pot. Plants are adorned with wavy, dark green leaves arranged in opposing pairs, which provide a striking contrast to the clusters of yellow flowers and red fruits dangling from their branches. The flowers exhibit spaced-out petals, bearing a noticeable resemblance in form to the related Acerola, which also belongs to the Malpighiaceae family.
Peanut Butter Fruit plants typically bear fruit within 2-3 years. The fruits mature into a striking dark red hue, reaching lengths of 2.5cm and resembling miniature Mangoes. Featuring a lusciously sweet and tender pulp, these fruits are ideal for snacking or blending into milkshakes. Their delicate flavour likened to Fig and Persimmon, is complemented by their unique peanut butter like texture, which earns them their distinctive name. Like their relative the Acerola, fruits are rich in Vitamin C in addition to Vitamin E and B.
Native to tropical South America, this plant thrives in the understory of various forest environments. Optimal growth and fruiting require fertile, well-draining soil and consistent year-round rainfall. Frost-free environments are preferable, although light, occassional frosts may be tolerated, with cooler subtropical climates also being suitable. Plants will flourish in either full sun or partial shade and develop drought tolerance once they are established.
A delightful curiosity for both children and adults, Peanut Butter Fruit offers a sensory pleasure for the palate and a tidy, ornamental addition to a garden.

Plant Profile/Properties