Peanut Butter Fruit
Bunchosia argentea (Jacq.) DC.
Location
Botanical Garden
Family
Malpighiaceae.
Common names
Peanut Butter Fruit
Native range
South and Central America
Habitat
Tropical and subtropical regions
Flowering
Throughout the year.
Fruiting
Throughout the year.
Conservation status
Not threatened; widely cultivated
About this plant
This species grows as an evergreen shrub or small tree, typically reaching 3–6 metres in height. The leaves are simple, dark green, glossy, and slightly wavy along the margins, with young leaves often appearing silvery beneath. Bright yellow, fragrant flowers are borne in terminal or axillary panicles. The fruits are small, oval to round, turning from orange to bright red when ripe. Each fruit contains a hard brown seed surrounded by soft, edible pulp with a characteristic peanut butter-like flavour.
Uses
The species is cultivated primarily for its edible fruits, which are consumed fresh and are also used in jams, preserves, and desserts. The fruit is nutritious (notably vitamin C and fibre) and low in calories. Some traditional uses include medicinal applications of the bark and leaves, primarily in folk remedies.
Growing conditions
This species thrives in full sunlight and grows best in fertile, organically rich, moist but well-drained soils. It is well adapted to humid tropical and subtropical climates but is sensitive to frost and prolonged cold conditions. The plant can be grown in garden landscapes or containers and responds well to regular pruning, which helps maintain its shape and promotes healthy growth
Habit
Evergreen shrub or small tree.