How to Grow Jaboticaba in New Zealand
Updated June 2026
A warm-north subtropical that needs a frost-free sheltered spot and acidic soil, and is very slow growing. Plant in spring. Most New Zealand gardeners will only succeed with it in the far north or under cover.
What it looks like as it grows
When to plant jaboticaba in New Zealand
Timing is everything in New Zealand, where the warm north and the cooler south are weeks apart. Sow or plant in these months for your region:
| Region | When to sow or plant |
|---|---|
| Northland | January, September, October, November, December |
| Auckland | January, September, October, November, December |
Best jaboticaba varieties for NZ
- Sabara, The common variety, dark grape-like fruit borne on the trunk, slow but long-lived. (specialist subtropical nurseries)
How to grow jaboticaba
- Space plants about 400cm apart.
- Sow seed around 15cm deep.
- Position: full sun.
- Ready to harvest in roughly 2555 days.
- Seeds germinate in about 30 days.
Companion planting
Grow jaboticaba near: Tropical fruit trees.
Pests and problems
Watch for: Birds. See our NZ pest and disease guide for organic control.
🌱 Plant Jaboticaba in your garden →For a calendar tuned to your exact region, see the New Zealand planting guides or the Jaboticaba plant page.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant jaboticaba in New Zealand?
In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in January, September, October, November, December. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.
Where can I buy jaboticaba seeds or plants in NZ?
Try specialist subtropical nurseries.