Savannah Cherry (Eugenia Calycina) Fruit Plant

Savannah Cherry (Eugenia calycina) is an extremely rare tropical fruit plant native to the savannas (Cerrado) and open fields of Central and Eastern Brazil, particularly the states of Minas Gerais and Mato Grosso do Sul. It is considered rare both in cultivation and in the wild, making it a prized addition to exotic fruit collections.

This deciduous, bushy shrub belongs to the Myrtaceae family and typically grows to a height of 10–12 feet. The plant produces beautiful white to pale pink flowers, followed by abundant fruit within 2–3 weeks. Its compact growth habit, ornamental flowers, and attractive fruits make it an excellent choice for tropical and subtropical gardens.

Savannah Cherry is also known by several common names, including Field Cherry, Jabuti Cherry, Grao De Galo, Cerejinha, Cereja De Cerrado, Pitanga-Vermelha, Red Pitanga, Pitanga Cherry of Cerrado, and Ca-Ajaboti.

About Savannah Cherry Fruit

The fruits are ellipsoid, measuring approximately 3–5 cm in length, with a glossy dark red skin and long, persistent yellowish-white sepals. They contain thick, juicy, and soft pulp with a delicious sweet flavor. The fruits are enjoyed fresh and are also widely used to prepare jams, jellies, marmalades, desserts, and other homemade delicacies.

Tree Characteristics

• Botanical Name: Eugenia calycina

• Common Names: Savannah Cherry, Field Cherry, Jabuti Cherry, Red Pitanga

• Plant Type: Deciduous fruiting shrub

• Family: Myrtaceae

• Origin: Central and Eastern Brazil

• Mature Height: 10–12 feet

• Flower Color: White to pale pink

• Fruit Color: Glossy dark red

• Fruit Size: 3–5 cm long

• Growth Habit: Compact, bushy shrub

• Climate: Tropical and subtropical

Health Benefits of Savannah Cherry

Savannah Cherry is rich in essential nutrients and powerful antioxidants that promote overall health.

• Rich source of Vitamin C for stronger immunity

• High in antioxidants that help fight free radicals

• Supports healthy skin and collagen production

• Promotes overall wellness and vitality

• Helps protect cells from oxidative stress

• Naturally rich in beneficial plant compounds

Growing Conditions

Savannah Cherry thrives in tropical and subtropical climates and prefers well-drained soils with plenty of sunlight. It adapts well to warm environments and rewards growers with abundant flowering and fruit production.

Harvesting

The fruits typically ripen within 2–3 weeks after flowering. Harvest when they develop a glossy dark red color for the best sweetness and flavor. The fruits can be enjoyed fresh or processed into delicious jams, jellies, marmalades, and sweets.

Why Choose Savannah Cherry?

• Extremely rare Brazilian fruit plant

• Attractive ornamental shrub with beautiful white-pink flowers

• Produces abundant sweet, juicy fruits

• Rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants

• Ideal for home gardens and rare fruit collectors

• Suitable for tropical and subtropical climates

• Excellent for fresh eating, jams, jellies, and marmalades