Hortiforum

General Info – Pitomba, Uvalha do campo

Deliciously juicy and aromatic, the Pitomba is akin to a miniature Apricot, marrying addictive flavour with the resilience of a hardy shrub.
Pitomba ripen from late spring to early summer, with fruits maturing into a vibrant dark orange hue reminiscent of Apricots. Pitomba fruits have a delightful flavour that is familiar to many palates, with its succulent, slightly tangy flesh often compared to Apricot. Fruits are ripe within a mere 4-6 weeks after flowering, being a delectable treat whether consumed fresh or transformed into preserves. Similar to Strawberries, ripe Pitombas typically measure around an inch in size and retain prominent green sepals. Pitomba can be susceptible to fruit fly and may benefit from protective netting, a task made very feasible due to their small size.
Originating in the coastal forests of northeast Brazil, the Pitomba thrives in conditions that challenge most fruit-bearing plants. Resilient to strong winds, salt exposure, and even temperatures as low as -3 degrees Celsius, mature, healthy plants endure these adverse conditions admirably. This resilience makes it an excellent choice for subtropical-tropical coastal climates where such factors might otherwise limit fruit cultivation. Preferring moist, fertile, slightly acidic soils, Pitombas struggle in dry conditions, particularly when young, exhibiting low tolerance for drought. Though they can withstand both full sun and partial shade although the latter may reduce fruiting. With consistent moisture and rich soil, Pitombas thrive, albeit growing slowly, making them ideal for container cultivation. Pitombas are partially self-pollinating, but their fruit set can be significantly enhanced by cultivating at least two different plants.
Like many of its Eugenia relatives, the Pitomba boasts ornamental qualities, featuring attractive evergreen foliage and showy white flowers. Its glossy, dark green leaves contrast beautifully with their pale undersides, while flowers are typical of the Eugenia genus with four white petals and prominent white stamens. Capable of forming either a small tree or a large shrub, the Pitomba can be easily managed due to its slow growth rate and kept below 2m. When healthy, it forms a dense, ornamental shrub, perfect for filling in exposed gaps in gardens. A perfect dooryard tree like the related Pitangatuba and Pitanguinha.
Well-suited to coastal environments and beloved by collectors of Eugenia species, the Pitomba’s exquisite fruit renders it a splendid addition to any collection of ornamental fruiting shrubs.

Plant Profile/Properties