Pitangatuba (Eugenia Selloi)

Description

I first learned of this amazing fruit five years ago when sent a seedling from Adam at Flying Fox Fruits. I put this baby in the ground in a spot with heavy clay on a South facing wall and never took care of it. It flowered for the first time in year five. I am moving from that spot so dug it up to bring with me, and let me tell you, that bad boy had developed a long long tap root. That said, I know Kevin over there in Virginia has been fruiting these in pots for years.

A truly unique fruit I tasted for the first time right here in New Orleans from a collector named Casimir. I think of it as a cross between mango and apricot, a perfect balance of sweet and sour. He has an interesting way of protecting these young plants which can be seen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=YgYUnaTf5Pg

Pitangatuba (Eugenia selloi), also known as the “Brazilian cherry” or “Pitanga do Mato,” is a tropical to subtropical fruit tree native to the Atlantic forests of Brazil. It is admired for its small, aromatic, and sweet-tart fruit, which is often compared to the pitanga or Surinam cherry (Eugenia uniflora), but E. selloi tends to be more sweet than sour. If you’re considering growing Pitangatuba in New Orleans (USDA Zone 9b), here’s what you need to know to give it the best chance of success.

1. Temperature Tolerance
Pitangatuba is a tropical plant and typically thrives in temperatures between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 29°C). While it can tolerate some heat, it is more sensitive to frost and cold temperatures. In USDA Zone 9b, where winter temperatures can dip to 25–30°F (-3 to -1°C), the plant may be at risk of damage during cold snaps.

During particularly cold winters, especially with extended frost, you might need to protect the tree with frost cloth or move young plants to a sheltered location, such as a greenhouse or porch, if a hard freeze is expected. An established plant may tolerate occasional cold weather, but frost could cause dieback.

2. Sunlight and Placement
Eugenia selloi thrives in full sun but can also handle partial shade, especially in the heat of the summer. In New Orleans, which experiences long, hot summers with high humidity, it’s a good idea to plant it in a location that receives morning sun and some afternoon shade, especially if you’re growing it outdoors in full sun to avoid sunburn or stress during the hottest part of the day.

Ensure the tree is planted in a sheltered spot to protect it from strong winds, especially if you’re growing it as a small tree or shrub. Wind protection will help reduce damage to leaves and fruit.

3. Soil Requirements
Pitangatuba prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH around 5.5–7.0). The soil should be rich in organic matter, and you may need to amend the typical New Orleans clay soil with compost or organic mulch to improve drainage and fertility.

It’s important that the soil does not stay waterlogged, as the tree is susceptible to root rot. Raised beds or mounds could help ensure good drainage.

4. Watering
Pitangatuba trees prefer consistently moist soil but do not tolerate waterlogging. Regular watering during dry periods is necessary, especially during the hot summer months. However, always ensure that water drains freely, as standing water can lead to root rot.

Mulching around the base of the tree with organic mulch (such as wood chips or leaves) will help retain soil moisture and protect the roots from temperature extremes.

5. Humidity and Rainfall
New Orleans’ humid climate is a plus for Pitangatuba, as it naturally grows in tropical environments with high humidity. The high moisture content in the air will likely benefit the plant, especially in terms of fruit production.

However, while the humidity is ideal, heavy rain or prolonged periods of wet weather could pose a challenge if the plant is in a location with poor drainage, so make sure the planting area dries out between rainfalls.

6. Frost Protection
Because of its tropical nature, frost is the biggest concern for growing Pitangatuba in Zone 9b. In the event of a cold snap or frost, it’s important to protect the plant. You can do this by:

Covering it with frost cloth or blankets during the coldest nights.

Moving young plants indoors or to a sheltered area such as a greenhouse.

Using large pots if you plan to move the plant inside when cold weather is expected.

Adding temporary windbreaks or small structures to shield it from cold winds.

With proper care, an established Pitangatuba may survive the occasional cold snap, but new growth and young plants are much more vulnerable to frost damage.

7. Growth Habit and Pruning
Eugenia selloi is a small to medium-sized tree, typically reaching heights of about 10–15 feet (3–5 meters) if left unpruned. It can be pruned to a smaller shrub size if you prefer.

Pruning is useful for controlling its shape, encouraging bushier growth, and improving air circulation, which can help reduce the risk of fungal diseases in humid environments. Light pruning after the fruiting season is best.

8. Fruit Production
Pitangatuba flowers are small and fragrant, and once pollinated, they produce bright orange, sweet-tasting fruits. Typically, fruiting occurs in late summer or fall, and the plant is capable of fruiting in 3–5 years if grown from a grafted nursery tree.

Fruit production will be best with adequate sunlight, moisture, and proper care. In New Orleans, the long growing season can give you a good opportunity for a successful harvest if the plant is established.

Conclusion
Pitangatuba (Eugenia selloi) can grow in New Orleans (Zone 9b) but will need attention to protect it from the occasional cold snap and ensure it has well-draining, fertile soil. If the plant is sheltered from frost and given adequate moisture and sunlight, it can thrive and produce delicious fruit. It may be more challenging to grow from seed due to the sensitivity to cold, but grafted trees from a nursery will have a better chance of success. Keep an eye on weather forecasts and use frost protection methods during the winter months to help ensure its survival and continued healths.