Camu Camu
Myrciaria dubia
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Description
Camu Camu is a small, bushy tree native to the Amazon rainforest, particularly found in Peru and Brazil. It thrives in floodplain areas and is adapted to the wet, tropical climate. The plant is known for its small, round, red to purple fruits, which are exceptionally high in vitamin C, making them a valuable addition to agroecological systems focused on nutrient-dense food production. In regenerative agriculture, Camu Camu can be integrated into food forests as an understory shrub, enhancing biodiversity and providing a sustainable source of nutrition. Its ability to grow in waterlogged soils makes it suitable for natural farming practices in tropical regions, where it can contribute to soil stabilization and water management. Historically, indigenous communities have used Camu Camu for its nutritional and medicinal properties, particularly for boosting immunity and treating infections.
Growing Details
Camu Camu requires a tropical climate with high humidity and consistent rainfall. It thrives in waterlogged soils and can be grown in floodplain areas. The plant prefers full sun exposure and well-drained, loamy soils. Propagation is typically done through seeds, which require warm temperatures for germination. Regular pruning can help maintain its shape and encourage fruit production. Mulching around the base can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as ginger and
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Erosion Preventing
Visual Appeal
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Myrciaria dubia</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Amazon rainforest, primarily Peru and Brazil
applicable geo region: South America
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of November for 3 days
Harvest:
beginning
of January for 3 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of November
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(5/5)
edible uses: The fruit of Camu Camu is consumed fresh or processed into juices, smoothies, and dietary supplements. It is highly valued for its tart flavor and extremely high vitamin C content, which is one of the highest among fruits. The fruit is typically harvested during the wet season and can be stored by drying or freezing to preserve its nutritional value.
Medicinal Rating:
(4/5)
medicinal uses: Camu Camu is used for its potent antioxidant properties, primarily due to its high vitamin C content. It is believed to support immune function, reduce inflammation, and improve skin health. The fruit is often used in traditional medicine to treat viral infections and as a natural remedy for colds and flu.
health concerns: Excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort due to high acidity.
other uses: The plant can be used for soil stabilization in flood-prone areas due to its tolerance to waterlogged conditions. It also plays a role in local ecosystems by providing habitat and food for wildlife.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Myrciaria dubia
common names: Camu Camu; Cacari; Camocamo
family: Myrtaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Myrciaria
Growing Conditions
area needed: 4.0 m
spacing: 3.0 m
growing difficulty: High
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: High
humidity: High
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: High
hardness:
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(10/10)
first harvest: 3 years
life span: 30 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 5.0 m
max width: 3.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Acid
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Camu Camu requires a tropical climate with high humidity and consistent rainfall. It thrives in waterlogged soils and can be grown in floodplain areas. The plant prefers full sun exposure and well-drained, loamy soils. Propagation is typically done through seeds, which require warm temperatures for germination. Regular pruning can help maintain its shape and encourage fruit production. Mulching around the base can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as ginger and
Potential Disturbances: Camu Camu may be susceptible to fungal diseases in overly wet conditions. Regular monitoring and maintaining proper air circulation can help mitigate these issues. Beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings can help control aphid populations. Planting marigolds nearby can deter nematodes, and neem oil can be used as an organic spray to manage fungal infections.
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