Family: Myrtaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Myrciaria glomerata (cabeluda or yellow jaboticaba) is an evergreen shrub or small tree in the Myrtaceae family, native to northern and eastern Brazil. It grows in tropical climates and can reach about 8 meters tall, often developing multiple slender trunks. The plant produces small, edible fruits about 20 mm wide with yellow, vitamin C–rich pulp that is eaten fresh and appreciated for its mild, sweet flavor. It is also grown as an ornamental and hedge plant, valued for its dense growth habit and attractive fruiting display. In cultivation, it is shade-tolerant and may begin producing fruit within 2–3 years from seed, though seeds have relatively low germination rates and lose viability quickly, requiring prompt planting.

Risks & Threats
This species currently presents minimal invasive risk, with no known records of naturalization or ecological impacts outside its native range. Its relatively large fruits and seeds are not easily dispersed accidentally, and it does not spread vegetatively or form persistent seed banks in soil. While birds, mammals, and humans can act as dispersal agents, there is little evidence that these pathways lead to aggressive spread. It is generally considered non-toxic and unarmed, though it may be susceptible to plant diseases such as Austropuccinia psidii (myrtle rust). Overall, it is regarded as low risk for tropical island ecosystems when cultivated responsibly.

High Risk Traits:

• Thrives in tropical climates
  
• Shade-tolerant
  
• Reproductive in two or more years
  
• Seeds dispersed by people, birds and other frugivorous mammals
  
• May be susceptible to Puccinia psidii rust

Low Risk Traits:

• No reports of naturalization or negative impacts have been documented
  
• Unarmed (no spines or thorns)
  
• Non-toxic
  
• Edible fruit
  
• Landscaping and ornamental value
  
• Not known to spread vegetatively
  
• Relatively large fruit and seeds unlikely to be accidentally dispersed
  
• Seeds will not persist in the soil