Fabaceae
Brazilian Cherry: Edible Plant
Hymenaea courbaril
Requires full sun and well-drained soil. It is a large-scale tree that needs ample space for the development of its roots and canopy.
Every 10 days
Direct sun
15° - 35°C
60% - 90%
Categories
What is Brazilian Cherry?
Brazilian Cherry (Hymenaea courbaril) is a medium-care plant from the Fabaceae family. The Jatobá (Hymenaea courbaril) is a majestic tree native to the tropical forests of the Americas. Renowned for its extremely hard wood and valuable resin (copal), it features leathery leaves composed of two leaflets and produces pod-shaped fruits containing an edible, mealy pulp with a characterist...
Brazilian Cherry grows up to 30.0m, spread of 1500cm, watering every 10 days, 15°C – 35°C, 60–90% humidity. It is not suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many popular species, Brazilian Cherry is safe to keep around pets.
How to Care for Brazilian Cherry?
TLDR: Brazilian Cherry needs Direct sun, watering every 10 days, and temperatures between 15-35°C with 60-90% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Brazilian Cherry?
Water young saplings regularly; mature trees are resistant to short periods of drought.
How Much Light Does Brazilian Cherry Need?
As a pioneer or light-demanding climax species, it must be planted in locations with full direct sun exposure.
What Is the Best Soil for Brazilian Cherry?
Prefers deep, fertile, and well-drained soils, and can tolerate slightly acidic soil conditions.
What Pot Should You Use for Brazilian Cherry?
Not recommended for long-term container growth due to its aggressive root system and large size.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 60 days
What Is Brazilian Cherry and Where Does It Come From?
The Jatobá (Hymenaea courbaril) is a majestic tree native to the tropical forests of the Americas. Renowned for its extremely hard wood and valuable resin (copal), it features leathery leaves composed of two leaflets and produces pod-shaped fruits containing an edible, mealy pulp with a characteristic odor.
How to Propagate Brazilian Cherry?
Sowing
- Keep the substrate consistently moist, but never waterlogged
- Germination is faster at temperatures above 77°F (25°C)
- 1 Scarification
Lightly sand the side of the seed to break the physical dormancy of the seed coat.
- 2 Soaking
Soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours prior to planting.
- 3 Planting
Sow in seedling bags using organic substrate at a depth of 2cm.
Materials needed:
How Big Does Brazilian Cherry Grow?
TLDR: Brazilian Cherry can reach up to 30.0m tall with Slow growth rate.
Max height
30.0m
Spread
15.0m
Growth rate
Slow
Foliage
Evergreen
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Edible
Can be consumed
Medicinal
Medicinal properties
Medicinal Uses
- Treatment of respiratory issues such as asthma and bronchitis
- Tonic and fortifying properties
- Use of the bark in infusions for digestive problems
Culinary Uses
- The mealy pulp is consumed fresh
- Used in the production of cakes, cookies, and breads
- Preparation of nutritious beverages mixed with milk
Is your plant showing symptoms?
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Meaning & Symbolism
Symbolizes strength, longevity, and resilience due to the hardness of its wood.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dark Fieldcap | Medium | Low light | 2d | ⚠️ |
| Azalea | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | ⚠️ |
| Muriel's Bamboo | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | ✓ |
| Bougainvillea | Medium | Direct sun | 7d | ⚠️ |
