Uvaia

Eugenia pyriformis — Myrtaceae

Italiano: Uvaia

uvaia

Description

Uvaia (Eugenia pyriformis) belongs to the Myrtaceae family and is native to SouthAmerica. It thrives in Atlantic forest subtropical environments across regions including SouthAmerica.

Botanically, Uvaia is small tree of the Atlantic forest with yellow-green pear-shaped fruits and sweet aromatic pulp..

The edible parts include Fruits. With an edibility rating of 7/10, it ranks as a good wild food source. Harvesting is best done during December, February, January, November and October.

Nutritionally, Uvaia stands out for its Vitamin C (45.0mg, 50% DV), Vitamin K (30.0mg, 25% DV) and Vitamin E (1.0mg, 7% DV). It also provides 2.0g protein and 3.0g dietary fiber per 100g serving.

In the kitchen, Uvaia offers a Sweet, slightly acidic, aromatic, pear-strawberry flavor profile. Pick when yellow and aromatic; eat raw. Common culinary applications include Fresh eating, Jams, Juice. Popular preparations include Eat soft yellow fruits fresh from the tree.

For storage, refrigerate fresh parts.

Safety note: None significant. Antinutrient content is minimal. Be aware that Verify identification before consumption. Safe lookalike species include Similar edible species. Always verify identification with at least three independent botanical sources before consumption.

Foragers should collect uvaia during Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan and Feb. Choose young, vibrant parts for optimal flavor and nutrition. Avoid specimens near polluted areas, roadsides, or treated agricultural land.

Field identification relies on recognizing the plant in its natural habitat — typically atlantic forest subtropical. Flowers, leaf arrangement, and growth habit provide the most reliable identification markers. Always consult at least two independent botanical sources.

Traditional SouthAmerica communities have long valued uvaia as a seasonal wild food. Its reliable growth and nutritional density made it a valuable resource during lean periods and food scarcity.

In contemporary cuisine, uvaia pairs excellently with olive oil, garlic, and citrus. It complements wild herbs, foraged mushrooms, and hearty grains. Experiment with both raw preparations and slow-cooked dishes to appreciate its full range.

Edibility

7/10
Toxicity: None significant
Antinutrients: Minimal
Safe lookalikes: Similar edible species
Dangerous: Verify identification before consumption

Harvest Calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Edible parts: Fruits
Preparation: Pick when yellow and aromatic; eat raw
Flavor: Sweet, slightly acidic, aromatic, pear-strawberry

Nutrition (per 100g)

Protein: 2.0g
Fat: 0.5g
Fiber: 3.0g
Vitamin C: 45.0mg (50%DV)
Vitamin A: 50mcg (5%DV)
Vitamin E: 1.0mg (6%DV)
Vitamin K: 30mcg (25%DV)
Folate (B9): 20mcg (5%DV)
Calcium: 30.0mg (2%DV)
Iron: 1.0mg (5%DV)
Magnesium: 20mg (4%DV)
Potassium: 200mg (4%DV)
Zinc: 0.3mg (2%DV)

Culinary Uses

Fresh eating, Jams, Juice

Storage

Refrigerate fresh parts

Recipes

  • Eat soft yellow fruits fresh from the tree

Where It Grows

Continent: SouthAmerica
Regions: SouthAmerica
Habitat: Atlantic forest subtropical