Eugenia calycina 'Nelita' is one of the rarest and most sought-after fruit-bearing Eugenia varieties native to central Brazil. This exceptional selection originated from the stock of the renowned Brazilian grower Miguel, who named it "Nelita" in honor of his wife. Today, this variety is considered one of the finest forms of the Eugenia calycina species.
The plant forms a compact, densely branched shrub; it reaches a height of approximately 1.5 meters when grown in open ground but remains even smaller in a container. Thanks to its slow growth and naturally compact habit, it is ideal for container gardening.
The standout feature of the 'Nelita' variety is its large fruit—measuring 3–5 cm in length—which ranks among the largest within the species. Upon ripening, the fruit develops a glossy, dark (almost black) skin and contains exceptionally juicy, golden-orange flesh. The flavor is sweet, delicate, and rich, with pleasant notes of apricot and forest fruits, and is free from the astringency or resinous undertones sometimes found in other Eugenia species.
The fruit is excellent for fresh eating but is also perfect for making jams, syrups, desserts, or homemade fruit sauces.
Eugenia calycina 'Nelita' is surprisingly easy to grow. It thrives best in a sunny to lightly shaded spot, planted in high-quality, well-draining, slightly acidic soil. It requires regular watering but does not tolerate prolonged waterlogging.
Although it can withstand brief temperature drops to around 0°C, it is not frost-hardy. It should be overwintered in a bright location where temperatures do not fall below 10°C.
In addition to its excellent fruit, it is also prized for its ornamental appearance. Glossy dark green leaves, delicate white flowers, and contrasting dark fruit make it an attractive plant for most of the year.
HEIGHT OF PLANTS FOR SALE: 10 to 15 cm
PRICE 20€
Growing instructions for Eugenia calycina 'Nelita'
Substrate:
Ideally slightly acidic and well-draining.
Recommended mix: 2 parts peat, 2 parts 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: Can be placed on a terrace, in the garden, or on a balcony from spring to autumn (partial shade initially, moving to full sun later).
Overwintering:
Tropical plant – does not tolerate temperatures below 0°C for extended periods. Overwinter at a minimum temperature of 10°C. For the winter, place the plant in the living room, bedroom, hallway, conservatory, or a heated greenhouse—always as close to a window as possible.
Fertilizing:
Use standard water-soluble or granular fertilizers.
Suitable fertilizer:
OSMOCOTE slow-release granular fertilizer.