Latin name - Eugenia macrobracteolata

Pitanga-Juba trees are a little-known Eugenia variety that visually resembles a Pitomba fruit, but tastes like Fanta soda. This small, fast-growing Brazilian native is also called “Pitangao de restinga” and “pitanga-Fanta.”

Like its Eugenia comrades, Pitanga Juba trees are commonly grown from seed and can bear fruits in as little as 1-2 years from seed, making this a fine choice for low-patience gardeners. 

The delicate orange fruits have a cherry orange flavor, lovingly equated with orange soda. Experienced growers recommend waiting for fruits to fall from the tree, rather than picking them. The full Fanta flavor is strongest in the ripest fruits. You can consume Pitanga-Juba fruits raw right off the tree or process them in to jam, pastries, juice, or ice cream.

Expect to attract pollinators!

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Size: No more than 8 ft

Notable Characteristics: Excellent, punchy flavor. 

Sun Requirements: Full or part sun

Water Requirements: Keep soil moist, but well-drained. Avoid water-logging.

Cold Hardiness: Withstands light freeze