Pitanga

Eugenia unifolia

NAME: Eugenia uniflora

FAMILY: Myrtaceae (Myrtle family)

COMMON NAMES: Surinam Cherry, Brazilian Cherry, Pitanga

LOCAL NAMES: Pitanga (Brazil), Ñangapirí (Paraguay), Cereza de Cayena (Spanish-speaking countries)

MORPHOLOGICAL DESCRIPTION: Eugenia uniflora is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree or shrub, typically reaching heights of 3-6 meters. It has a compact and dense crown with elliptical, glossy leaves that are dark green on the upper surface and lighter green on the lower surface. The tree produces small, round fruit that resembles cherries. The fruit starts green and matures to a bright red or orange color when ripe.

USEFUL PART(s): The fruit of Eugenia uniflora is the most useful part of the plant.

GENERAL USES:

  1. Culinary Use: The fruit of Eugenia uniflora is edible and commonly consumed fresh. It has a tart, tangy flavor with hints of sweetness. The fruit can be eaten raw, used in jams, jellies, and desserts, or made into refreshing beverages. It is particularly popular in Brazil, where it is used in various culinary preparations, including sauces, liqueurs, and ice creams.

  2. Medicinal Use: In traditional medicine, different parts of Eugenia uniflora, including the leaves and bark, are used for their potential medicinal properties. They are believed to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. Infusions or decoctions of the leaves and bark are used to treat digestive disorders, respiratory ailments, and skin conditions.

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION: Eugenia uniflora is native to the tropical regions of South America, particularly Brazil and neighboring countries. It is also cultivated in other parts of the world with suitable climates, such as Florida in the United States, the Caribbean islands, and some regions in Asia and Africa.

WHY IS IT GREEN? Eugenia uniflora, like other plants, appears green due to the presence of chlorophyll in its leaves. Chlorophyll is a pigment that captures sunlight during photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy. Chlorophyll absorbs red and blue wavelengths of light while reflecting green light, giving plants their characteristic green color.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: Eugenia uniflora can have positive environmental impacts when cultivated sustainably. As an evergreen species, it contributes to carbon sequestration and provides habitat and food sources for various wildlife. However, invasive populations of Eugenia uniflora have been reported in some regions, such as Florida, where it can displace native plant species and disrupt local ecosystems.

FUN FACT: The Surinam Cherry, Eugenia uniflora, is not a true cherry but is named so due to the resemblance of its fruit to cherries. The fruit is rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants, making it a healthy addition to the diet. In addition to its culinary and medicinal uses, Eugenia uniflora is also cultivated as an ornamental plant for its attractive foliage and colorful fruit.

Further Reading:

  1. "Eugenia uniflora: Surinam Cherry." By G. T. Prance.

  2. "Pitanga (Eugenia uniflora): A Promising Fruit for the Brazilian Savanna." By F. R. Scarpare and others.

  3. "Edible Medicinal and Non-Medicinal Plants: Volume 9, Modified Stems, Roots, Bulbs." By T. K. Lim.