Blue grape

What it is

Myrciaria vexator belongs to the myrtle family. Its fruit measures 2–3 cm (¾–1¼ in) across and turns from green to purple or purplish-black as it ripens.

Beneath the thick skin is pale, translucent pulp, usually wrapped around one or two seeds. The tough peel and the seeds are removed to reach it, and together they make up much of each fruit.

Where it comes from

Blue grape comes from Costa Rica, Panama and Venezuela, linking Central America with the northern edge of South America. It is cultivated in Venezuela and grown farther afield as an ornamental fruit tree.

At Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in South Florida, three specimens grow in Plot 46, all with Venezuelan origins. The rounded tree also suits parks and gardens.

How it's eaten where it grows

In parts of its native range, blue grape is eaten fresh or turned into jelly and drinks. Its jelly-like flesh also makes jam after the tough peels and seeds are discarded. A large bowlful of fruit makes only a small amount of jam, because skin and seeds make up much of each fruit.

How it's grown

The tree usually reaches 2–5 m (7–16 ft), with a rounded canopy that can extend almost to the ground. Full sun and deep, rich, well-drained soil suit it. It also grows on South Florida’s limestone soils.

New trees can be raised from seed. Small white flowers appear in clusters, each with many long stamens, the threads that carry pollen. The fruit draws birds to the tree.

When and where you'll find it

In South Florida, blue grape usually matures in spring. Ripe fruit has purple to purplish-black skin over a translucent, edible centre. At Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, the trees grow in Plot 46.