Myrciaria vexator

Myrciaria vexator 10zz

Myrciaria vexator, commonly known as the Blue Grape or False Jaboticaba, is a tropical fruit tree native to parts of South America. It belongs to the family Myrtaceae, which includes several other important fruit-bearing and ornamental plants. The species is closely related to the Jaboticaba (Myrciaria cauliflora), but it can be distinguished by its unique fruit and growth characteristics.

Description

Myrciaria vexator is a slow-growing, evergreen tree that can reach heights of up to 10-15 meters under optimal conditions. The tree's bark is smooth and gray, and it produces dense, lush foliage. The leaves are simple, opposite, glossy, and dark green in color.

The flowers of Myrciaria vexator are small, white, and fragrant, appearing directly on the trunk and larger branches in a phenomenon known as cauliflory. This adaptation allows for easy pollination by insects that navigate the lower forest canopy, including bees and beetles.

Fruit

The fruit of Myrciaria vexator is a round, dark blue to purple berry, approximately 2-3 cm in diameter. Each fruit contains one to four large seeds. The skin is thick and the pulp is juicy, sweet, and aromatic, making it highly prized for fresh consumption and for use in jellies, wines, and liqueurs. The fruiting season varies by location but typically occurs twice a year.

Cultivation

Myrciaria vexator is cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, though it remains less common than its relative, the Jaboticaba. It prefers acidic, well-drained soils and a position in full sun to partial shade. The tree is relatively cold-sensitive and requires protection from frost. It can be propagated by seed, which may take several years to bear fruit, or more commonly by grafting onto rootstocks of other Myrciaria species, which can result in fruiting within a few years.

Uses

Beyond its value as a fruit tree, Myrciaria vexator is also appreciated for its ornamental qualities, including its attractive foliage, bark, and unusual flowering and fruiting habits. In its native range and in cultivation, it provides habitat and food for wildlife, including birds and insects.

Conservation

While Myrciaria vexator does not currently face any immediate threats of extinction, habitat loss and deforestation in South America could impact its wild populations. Conservation efforts for the species and its habitat are important to ensure its survival and the preservation of biodiversity within its native ecosystem.