Blue Grape (Myrciaria vexator)
Rare, Sweet Tropical Berry
Common Names: Blue Grape, Vexator, False Jaboticaba
Family: Myrtaceae
Origin: Central and South America (native to regions like Costa Rica and Panama)
Blue Grape (Myrciaria vexator), also known as False Jaboticaba, is a rare tropical fruit tree that produces dark blue, grape-like berries with a sweet, juicy flavor. The tree is closely related to the Jaboticaba, sharing similarities in appearance and fruit structure. Blue Grape fruits have thick, purple-blue skin and soft, sweet, white pulp that is rich in flavor, making them a delightful treat for fresh eating or juicing. This slow-growing, evergreen tree thrives in warm, humid climates, and its ornamental beauty, combined with its delicious fruit, makes it a prized addition to tropical and subtropical gardens.
Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value
Fruits: Blue Grape fruits are small, round, and dark blue to purple, about the size of a grape or small plum. The thick skin surrounds a soft, juicy pulp that is sweet and mildly tangy. The fruit can be eaten fresh or used to make jams, jellies, and juices. Blue Grapes are rich in vitamins C and A, as well as antioxidants, supporting immune health and overall wellness.
Foliage: The tree has dark green, glossy leaves that give it a lush, tropical appearance. The leaves are elliptical and grow densely, creating an attractive canopy.
Growth Habit: Blue Grape is a slow-growing, evergreen tree that can reach heights of 10-25 feet when mature. The tree is well-suited for tropical and subtropical climates and can be grown in containers for those in cooler regions.
Culinary and Ornamental Uses
Blue Grape fruits are delicious when eaten fresh or used to make juices, jams, and jellies. The fruit’s sweet flavor and juicy texture make it a perfect tropical snack. In addition to its edible value, the tree is highly ornamental, with its glossy green leaves and attractive form. Blue Grape is often grown for its beauty as well as its fruit, making it a standout in any garden or landscape.
Quick Care Guide
| Plant Type: | Perennial Evergreen Fruit Tree |
| Harvest Season: | Summer to Fall |
| Mature Size: | 10-25 feet tall, 8-15 feet wide |
| Soil & Moisture: | Well-draining, fertile soil; regular watering |
| Light Requirements: | Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Growth Rate: | Slow |
| Self-fertile: | Yes |
| Zone Hardiness: | Outdoors 9-11; Patio/Greenhouse 4+; Grown in containers indoors in cooler zones |
| Propagation: | Grown from seeds or cuttings; fruits within 3-5 years. |
Growing Guide for Blue Grape
Climate and Soil Requirements
- Climate: Blue Grape thrives in warm, humid tropical and subtropical climates and is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 9-11. It grows well in areas with consistent warmth and moderate humidity. In cooler regions, it can be grown in containers and moved indoors during the winter.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining, fertile soil with plenty of organic matter. Slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 5.5-7.0) are ideal for healthy growth and fruiting.
Planting
- Location: Choose a sunny to partially shaded location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Blue Grape can tolerate partial shade, but full sun promotes better fruit production.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil and mix in compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage.
- Planting Time: Plant in spring or early summer when the soil has warmed up and the risk of frost has passed.
- Spacing: Space trees 10-15 feet apart to allow for their slow-growing, spreading habit.
Watering
- Consistent Moisture: Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Blue Grape requires steady moisture, especially during the growing season, to thrive.
Sunlight and Fertilizing
- Full Sun to Partial Shade: Ensure the plant receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruiting.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 6-8 weeks during the growing season. Organic compost or liquid fertilizer can also be added to improve soil fertility.
Pruning and Maintenance
- Low Maintenance: Blue Grape is a low-maintenance tree. Prune lightly to shape the tree and remove any dead or damaged branches. Thinning the branches can help improve air circulation and sunlight penetration.
- Container Growing: Blue Grape can be grown successfully in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix, and ensure the container has proper drainage. Move the tree indoors during the winter in cooler climates.
Pest and Disease Management
- Common Pests: Blue Grape is relatively pest-resistant but may attract aphids, scale, or spider mites. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage infestations.
- Diseases: The tree is generally disease-resistant but may suffer from root rot if overwatered. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogged soil.
Harvesting Blue Grapes
When to Harvest:
- Blue Grapes are typically harvested in late summer to fall when the fruit turns a deep blue or purple and is slightly soft to the touch. The fruit should be picked when fully ripe for the best flavor.
How to Use:
- The fruit is delicious when eaten fresh, added to fruit salads, or used to make jams, jellies, and juices. The sweet and juicy flavor makes it a perfect tropical snack.
Plant Type:
Tropical / Subtropical Evergreen Fruit Tree
Harvest Season:
Spring, Summer
Mature Size:
10-12 ft
Due to their unique shrubby and branchy growing habit and short stature, Jabuticaba trees are an excellent specimen for Bonsai!
Soil & Moisture:
Rich, moist well-drained soil, and humid conditions similar to their native areas tropical and subtropical regions.
Light Requirements:
Full Sun, Part Shade
Self-Fertile:
Yes
Growth Rate:
Slow
Zone Hardiness:
Outdoors 9-11 with frost protection; Patio/Greenhouse 4+
Propagation:
Our Jabuticaba is grown from seed, capable of producion within 3-8 years, depending on variety
