Jaboticaba tree ( Plinia cauliflora ) Pollination, cauliflory and fruit production Myrtaceae family

The Myrtaceae family is one of the most important from the point of view of bee-friendly flora in Brazil. It is cited in practically all studies that deal with the identification of plant species of interest to bees. It is a family widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions, with high diversity in Brazilian territory. Another species of this family is the Pitanga (read here: pitanga pollination).

The jaboticaba tree is native to Brazil and originates from the Atlantic Forest , considered one of the main centers of diversification for Myrtaceae.

Many species in this family exhibit abundant flowering, high pollen production, and strong interaction with pollinators, which explains their ecological and economic importance.

🌼 Melitophilous flowers and caulifloria

The flowers of the jaboticaba tree are produced directly on the trunk and main branches , a phenomenon known as cauliflory . This reproductive strategy gives the species unique ecological characteristics and directly influences its interaction with pollinators.

Flowers

The flowers are small , hermaphroditic, and have a shallow corolla formed by light-colored petals. The stamens are numerous,  a characteristic highly attractive to bees. In addition to the visual stimulus, the flowers exude a strong, sweet aroma , noticeable in the early hours of the day, acting as an important chemical attractant for pollinators.

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