Peanut Butter Fruit

Bunchosia glandulifera, commonly known as peanut butter fruit, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the Malpighiaceae family. Native to Central and South America, this plant is known for its small, orange-red fruits, which possess a dense, sticky pulp with a flavor and aroma that strongly resembles peanut butter. The fruit is primarily consumed fresh but is also utilized in making jellies, jams, and preserves. Due to the berry's resemblance to coffee cherries, it is referred to in Brazil as "caferana" or "falso guarana".

This species has been introduced into U.S. horticulture under the misapplied name Bunchosia argentea, leading to some confusion in cultivation. However, Bunchosia argentea has not been actively cultivated, and the two species can be distinguished by differences in leaf structure.

Botanical Description

Bunchosia glandulifera grows as an evergreen shrub or small tree, reaching heights of 7–8 meters (23–26 feet) in its natural habitat, though it is often maintained at 6 meters (20 feet) or less in cultivation. The leaves are lightly hairy (sericeous) with wavy edges, distinguishing them from similar species. The bark is grayish-brown, varying from smooth to slightly rough or nodular, and the tree's trunk produces a form of rubber. This species is known for its fast growth and has some tolerance to frost.

The fruits are elliptical, slightly hairy, and transition from orange to red when fully ripe. They have a thin, somewhat rubbery skin and typically measure 2–3.5 centimeters in length. Each fruit contains one or two light brown, elliptical seeds, which are about 1–1.5 centimeters long and have a smooth, bony texture. The red pulp is sticky, sweet, and slightly juicy. Fruits can be harvested when still orange and allowed to ripen over two days until they become red and soft.