How to Grow Jaboticaba in Australia
A warm-season fruit for the long-term patch
Growing your own Jaboticaba is one of the more satisfying things you can do in an Australian backyard. It is rated intermediate to grow. Almost impossible to buy. Fresh jaboticaba is only available if you grow it or know someone who does.
This guide covers when to plant Jaboticaba in your region, the position and soil it likes, how to plant it, day-to-day care, the pests and diseases to watch, and how to harvest and store your crop.
When to Plant in Your Region
Jaboticaba is a warm-season crop, half-hardy (it takes light frost but not a hard freeze). In subtropical South-East Queensland it is best planted in September, October, November, December, January and February. Timing shifts with your climate, so choose your region below for a local calendar.
Varieties to Try
Sabara
The standard large-fruited variety. Faster to fruit than others (5-7 years). Most widely grown in Australia.
Try: Daleys, Tropical Fruit World, specialist nurseries
Position and Soil
Give Jaboticaba full sun (at least 6 hours a day). It does best in free-draining soil with a pH around 5 to 6.5. Dig through plenty of compost before planting, and mulch to hold moisture and keep weeds down. It grows happily in a pot of 50cm+ (slow-growing, container-friendly), which makes it a fine choice for balconies and courtyards.
Planting
Plant Jaboticaba into a well-prepared hole the same depth as the rootball and twice as wide. Allow about 400 cm between plants (more for full-size trees) so each has room and airflow. Water in well, stake if needed, and keep the area weed-free while it establishes.
Plinia cauliflora. Brazilian grape tree. Dark purple grape-like fruit grows directly on the trunk and branches (cauliflory). Sweet-tart, thick-skinned, eaten fresh or made into wine and jam. Very slow growing but extremely long-lived. Tolerates light frost once established. Works from SEQ to Sydney in sheltered spots. Acidic soil essential.
Care
Water consistently, roughly 10 L per plant every 3 days in warm weather, less in cool or wet spells. Feed every few weeks through the growing season with a balanced organic fertiliser, and keep mulch topped up.
Pests and Diseases
Keep an eye out for Birds. The main diseases to watch are Few. Good spacing, watering at the base rather than over the leaves, and crop rotation prevent most problems. See our Pest and Disease Guide to identify and fix any issue.
Harvesting and Storage
Jaboticaba is typically ready to harvest within roughly 85 months once established (young plants may take a season or two longer). Fridge for 2-3 days only. Make into jam or freeze pulp quickly.
In the Kitchen
In the kitchen, jaboticaba is good eaten fresh, popping whole fruits like grapes, made into jam and jelly, fermented into wine and used in sauces and desserts. Nutritionally: very high in antioxidants and rich in vitamin C.
Companion Planting
Jaboticaba grows well alongside Tropical fruit trees. Our Companion Planting Guide has the full pairings.
Track Your Jaboticaba Growing
Add jaboticaba to your garden in the Planting Season app and get reminders for planting, care and harvest, tuned to your region.
Open the App →Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Jaboticaba in Australia?
Jaboticaba is a warm-season crop. In subtropical regions like South-East Queensland it is best planted in September, October, November, December, January and February. Timing changes with your climate, so use the calendar above for your region.
How long does Jaboticaba take to grow?
Jaboticaba is generally ready to harvest within roughly 85 months once established (young plants may take a season or two longer).
Can I grow Jaboticaba in a pot?
Yes. Jaboticaba grows well in a container of 50cm+ (slow-growing, container-friendly) with free-draining mix and regular watering.
How much sun does Jaboticaba need?
Give it full sun (at least 6 hours a day) for the healthiest growth and best harvest.
See also: Jaboticaba in the Plant Library
