The Jaboticaba tree (Myrciaria cauliflora) is an unusual fruit tree that which bears its fruit along the bark of the tree. Commonly grown outdoors in USDA growing zones 9-11 without winter protection, it is also well adapted to being grown in a container in cooler climates. This slow growing tree can reach heights of 30-40 feet tall and 15-20 feet wide if planted in the ground, but will stay much more compact if planted in a container. Potted trees will need to be brought in before night time temperatures begins to drop near 40 degrees, although they are tolerant down to 30 degrees.

Choosing a Location: The Jaboticaba tree is a full sun tree but can tolerate a little shade. It needs really well draining soil and prefers a pH of 5.5-6.5. These trees are not salt tolerant or wind tolerant, so they will need some protection from these elements, especially when young.

Planting instructions (in ground):
1) Dig a hole that is 3 times as wide and about 2 inches shallower than the container that the plant arrived in. The shallow hole will allow the plant to be raised slightly making the runoff area better so that the roots do not sit in water.
2) Remove the plant from the container and lightly loosen the roots so that they spread out more quickly.
3) Position the tree in the hole so that it is upright and begin to backfill the hole. Mound the soil up to the crown but do not bury the crown any deeper than it was in the container. Backfill with a mixture of native soil, compost and peat moss depending on the composition of the soil and how well it drains. For poor draining soil use more peat moss or sand, for well draining soil use more compost. Tamp down the soil as you go to remove air pockets.
4) Water well when done but ensure that the soil is not saturated.
5) Mulch the area well to help protect the roots and conserve moisture, this also provides a source of slow release nutrient to the planting area.

Planting instructions (potted):
1) Choose a container that is 1-2 times larger than what the plant arrived to you in, ensure that it has plenty of drainage holes as drainage is essential.
2) Add a little soil to the bottom of the container, a quality, well draining potting mix will work fine.
3) Remove the plant from the container, lightly loosen the root system and place the plant in the container.
4) Fill the rest of the container with the potting mix, making sure to leave about a 1 inch space to the top of the container for ease of watering.
5) Place the plant in a sunny area on your patio, making sure that it is protected from wind.
6) When bringing indoors in the winter make sure to do so gradually and place in the sunniest spot that you have.

Watering: Jaboticaba trees do not like to have wet feet, but while establishing they will need watered regularly to prevent wilting and to assist the roots with establishing. Do not flood the area, allow the soil to dry out about 2 inches down whether in the ground or in a container.

Fertilizing: Since these are slow growing trees, fertilize them in the spring and summer with a well balanced fertilizer such as a 10-10-10 formula to give them a boost in growth for the first couple of seasons. An alternate method of fertilizing would be to add a layer of compost to the top of the root system in the spring.

Pruning: Jaboticaba trees need very little in the way of pruning except to remove damaged or crossing branches. They can be trimmed into a small hedge or for shaping in the late winter or early spring.

Harvesting: These trees can produce fruit throughout the year but the heaviest yield will be in March to April depending on your location. Pick the fruit when it’s the size of a small plum and the color of a dark grape.

Pests and diseases: Although not affected by any serious illnesses, these trees can be prone to rust or fungal issues during times of high humidity and moisture.