Scientific (Botanical) Name is Eugenia uniflora
The Surinam Cherry, also called pitanga, Brazil cherry, and in Hawaii, pumpkin cherry, is a large shrub that can achieve heights in excess of 25 feet. It is often referred to as a tree. The evergreen leaves, ovate to lanceolate, are slightly bronze colored when young and about 2 inches x 1/2 to 3/4 inches.
One to four fragrant white flowers are found together in a leaf axil, each 3/8 inch diameter with an average of 50 stamens. The fruit is thin skinned, 7 to 8 ribs, 1.5 inch diameter with 1 to 3 seeds. The fruit is green when young, turning to orange then to a bright red or dark purple-black. The sweet juicy flesh is considered refreshing by some and an acquired taste by others due to its resinous flavor.
Pitanga is rich in antioxidants which help to prevent the free radicals that are the major cause for inflammation and diseases. Fruits are rich in phosphorus, Vitamin C, riboflavin, iron and niacin.
Health Benefits of Pitanga
1. Heart ailments
2. Treats cancer
3. Eye ailments
4. Treats common cold
5. Skin health
6. Prevent acne
7. Immune power
8. Prevent Muscular Dystrophy
9. Produces RBC
10. Regulates growth and reproduction