Calycolpus legrandii “Barapiroca-Açu” — Rare Red Alagoas Myrtaceae, Large-Fruited Form (November Pre-Sale)

Description

Calycolpus legrandii “Barapiroca-Açu” — Rare Brazilian Myrtaceae with Excellent Edible Fruit

Calycolpus legrandii is a rare Brazilian Myrtaceae valued both as a collector species and as an edible native fruit tree. This particular seed lot comes from Barra de São Miguel, Alagoas, Brazil, and was obtained from a fruiting tree selected by our Brazilian source.

Locally known as Barapiroca-Açu, the name reflects the notably large fruit of this form. The ripe fruits from this accession are bright red and measure approximately 2.5–2.7 cm. Our source, Clayton, describes the flavor as excellent.

Brazilian rare-fruit references describe Calycolpus legrandii as producing fruit that is sweeter and more flavorful than the well-known Cherry of the Rio Grande (Eugenia involucrata). The fruits can be eaten fresh and may also be used for juices, ice cream, jams and desserts.

The tree is also highly ornamental, with large glossy leaves and beautiful white flowers carrying numerous stamens with distinctive pinkish to reddish anthers. Mature trees are reported to reach approximately 5–10 m in height.

Under Brazilian growing conditions, plants may begin fruiting approximately 3–4 years after planting, with the main fruiting period reported around October and November. Brazilian growers also report tolerance to temperatures near -3 °C, although this should be regarded as a horticultural observation rather than a universal hardiness guarantee.

• Species: Calycolpus legrandii Mattos
• Common name: Barapiroca-Açu
• Origin of this seed lot: Barra de São Miguel, Alagoas, Brazil
• Fruit size: approximately 2.5–2.7 cm
• Ripe color: bright red
• Flavor: described by the source as excellent
• Eating quality: Brazilian fruit references report the species as sweeter and more flavorful than Cherry of the Rio Grande
• Tree size: approximately 5–10 m
• First fruiting: reported from approximately 3–4 years under favorable conditions
• Main fruiting season in Brazil: October–November
• Cold tolerance: reported to approximately -5 °C

November 2026 Pre-Sale

⚠️ NOVEMBER 2026 PRE-SALE ITEM. Only 30 seeds were secured from this rare accession. Fresh Myrtaceae seed is highly perishable, so final fulfillment depends on the reserved lot arriving in suitable condition and passing our inspection.

Germination and Care

Calycolpus legrandii produces recalcitrant seeds, meaning they should never be allowed to dry completely. Brazilian cultivation references report that dried seeds may lose viability rapidly.

Sow fresh seeds promptly in a loose, organic and well-draining substrate. Keep the medium evenly moist, warm and humid, but never waterlogged. Bright filtered light is recommended during early establishment.

Fresh seed has been reported to germinate in approximately 40–60 days. Growing two or more plants may improve fruit production and pollination.