Grow Light for Jaboticaba: Brazilian Grape Tree in Pots
A grow light for jaboticaba gives the Brazilian grape tree bright light while it winters indoors. NC State Extension notes Plinia cauliflora cannot tolerate frost well but can be grown as a container plant or bonsai brought inside when winter temperatures dip too low.
The short answer
NC State lists full sun to part shade for jaboticaba, so it wants bright light indoors. Set a grow light so plant tips sit 6 to 12 inches below it, as Missouri Extension advises. Run 12 to 16 hours a day on a timer. Maryland Extension advises no more than 16 hours a day.
What is jaboticaba?
NC State Extension notes jaboticaba is most recognizable by large, round, dark purple fruits that grow directly from its trunk. It is a slow growing broadleaf evergreen whose fruits appear in Brazilian markets.
How much light does a potted jaboticaba need?
NC State lists full sun, six or more hours of direct sunlight, to part shade. Indoors that means the brightest spot you have. Illinois Extension rates direct light at about 1,500 footcandles directly in front of a south window plus bright light at about 300 footcandles.
Missouri Extension advises 12 to 14 hours a day when some window light reaches plants, plus 16 to 18 when none does. Maryland caps it at 16 hours in total.
| Factor | Target | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Natural light | Full sun to part shade | NC State |
| South window light | About 1,500 footcandles | Illinois |
| Light distance | Tips 6 to 12 inches below | Missouri |
| Hours with window light | 12 to 14 a day | Missouri |
| Upper limit | 16 hours a day | Maryland |
Source: NC State Extension, Illinois Extension, University of Missouri Extension plus University of Maryland Extension.
How do you help jaboticaba flower indoors?
NC State notes white to yellow flowers under 1 inch grow along the trunk plus branches. It notes the plant fruits 5 to 6 times a year in ideal conditions plus fruits more with cross pollination. Maryland Extension notes too little light reduces flowering, so ample light aids bloom.
How to: step by step
- Bring the pot inside before frost.
- Place it by a south window.
- Hang a light so tips sit 6 to 12 inches below.
- Set a timer for 12 to 16 hours.
- Water so the rich soil stays moist.
- Watch for flowers on the trunk.
Troubleshooting
No flowers: too little light. Maryland notes low light reduces flowering.
Leaf drop after moving in: Maryland notes plants need time to adjust to indoor light.
Leaning stems: light from one side. Turn the pot or add light overhead.
For more on lights see grow lights for cannabis plus led light distance cannabis. Read grow light timers to set hours. Kind Seed Co also stocks cannabis seeds.
Sources
- Plinia cauliflora (jaboticaba), NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox
- Lighting for indoor plants, University of Maryland Extension
- Lighting indoor houseplants (G6515), University of Missouri Extension
- Lighting, houseplants, Illinois Extension
FAQ
Does jaboticaba fruit indoors?
NC State Extension notes jaboticaba can be grown as a container plant or bonsai plus fruits 5 to 6 times a year in optimal conditions. Ample light supports flowering.
How fast does jaboticaba grow?
NC State Extension lists jaboticaba as slow growing, which suits it to life in a container.
Can jaboticaba handle frost?
No. NC State Extension notes it cannot tolerate frost well, so it should come inside when winter temperatures dip too low.
What soil does jaboticaba like?
NC State Extension advises rich, moist, well drained soil.
Does jaboticaba need a second plant to fruit?
NC State Extension notes jaboticaba fruits more with cross pollination, so a second plant can help.
