An exotic, flying-saucer-shaped fruit rarely seen in Europe. Imagine a fruit tree bearing produce that looks like small flying saucers; that is exactly what the Cambuci (Campomanesia phaea) is—one of the most fascinating species in the Brazilian Myrtaceae family. Native to the Atlantic Forest of southeastern Brazil, it is a highly prized fruit plant in its homeland.
Its fruit is truly striking. Reaching up to approximately 7 cm in diameter, it has a distinctive flattened shape and remains dark green even when fully ripe. Inside lies juicy flesh with a bold, refreshing sweet-and-sour flavor. This intense taste makes the Cambuci an exceptional fruit, perfect not only for eating fresh but also for making jams, jellies, juices, sorbets, ice creams, liqueurs, and other specialties.
Moreover, the Cambuci boasts impressive nutritional qualities. The fruit is rich in Vitamin C, polyphenols, and flavonoids, and is valued for its high content of other bioactive compounds. Its composition is currently the subject of research by Brazilian scientific institutions.
Moreover, Cambuci boasts very interesting nutritional properties. The fruit is rich in vitamin C, polyphenols, and flavonoids, and is prized for its high content of other bioactive compounds. Its chemical composition is currently the subject of research by Brazilian scientific institutions.
One reason why you will practically never encounter fresh Cambuci outside of Brazil is its exceptionally short shelf life. After harvesting, the fruit spoils quickly, losing its quality within just a few days. This makes it a fruit best enjoyed when picked straight from your own tree.
Native to tropical and subtropical regions, the plant thrives in sunny locations and requires plenty of moisture while young. Regular watering is crucial during the first and second years, and the soil should not be allowed to dry out. Once the plant becomes established, however, growing it is significantly easier.
Campomanesia phaea "Cambuci" is a true Brazilian rarity—a beautiful plant with unusual fruit, a distinctive flavor, and a fascinating story. If you want to grow something that almost no one else here has—and that will one day offer you your own "flying saucers" bursting with exotic flavor—Cambuci is the perfect plant for you.
Height of plants for sale: 10 to 15 cm
PRICE 32€
Growing instructions for Campomanesia phaea
Substrate:
Ideally slightly acidic and well-draining
Recommended mix: 2 parts peat, 1 part perlite, a little sand
Watering:
Keep the substrate consistently slightly moist
Reduce watering in winter; empty any excess water from the saucer after watering.
Growing location:
Indoors year-round: As close to a window as possible, with plenty of light.
Summering outdoors (terrace, garden, or balcony) is possible only from spring to autumn: Partial shade initially, moving to full sun later.
Overwintering:
Tropical plant – cannot tolerate temperatures below 10°C for extended periods. Overwinter at a minimum temperature of 15°C.
Place in a living room, bedroom, hallway, conservatory, or heated greenhouse for the winter—always as close to a window as possible.
Fertilizing:
Standard water-soluble or granular fertilizers
Use half-strength doses for plants under 2 years old.
Older plants can tolerate standard doses.
Suitable fertilizer:
OSMOCOTE slow-release granular fertilizer