Campomanesia sp. "CAMBUCÍ AÇÚ"

The CAMBUCÍ AÇÚ, rooted in the Tupi Guarani language, translates to "fruit akin to the growing in a particular place; nativeindigenous pot, Camussí," with "Açu" emphasizing its substantial size. It's also popularly recognized as the giant Guabiroba. This rare tree is native to the Atlantic forests of Caratinga, Minas Gerais, and parts of Espírito Santo.

Visually, the Cambucí Açú presents as a modest tree, reaching heights of 2-3m, canopy of a treecrowned with a cylindrical foliage. The slender trunk is distinct, covered in peeling, squared brown bark. Soft, velvety hairs, known as pubescent and fusco, envelop its young branches and leaves. These robust leaves stretch between 4.5 to 7 cm in length and 1.6 to 2.5 cm in width. The tree boasts one flowersolitary, hermaphrodite flowers nestled in leaf the angle between the upper side of a leaf and the supporting stemaxils, spanning 1.3 to 2.2 cm.

When it comes to fruiting, the tree yields produce from March to June. Although the fruits can be consumed directly due to their tartness, their flavors are heightened when transformed into jams, ice creams, juices and smoothies.