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Botanical Name: Clavija sp
Common Name: Clavija
Origin: Western Andes, Colombia
Emerging like a sculpture in nature, Clavija sp is a fascinating shrub or small tree that commands attention with its palm-like stature and minimalist elegance. Native to the tropical forests of the western Andes of Colombia, this sparsely branched wonder grows up to 4 meters tall and thrives at elevations between 800 to 1300 meters.
Its dramatic, long, undivided leaves form a canopy that resembles certain palm species — a feature that makes this plant not just a fruit bearer, but also a striking ornamental addition to any plant garden or exotic fruit tree collection.
What truly sets Clavija apart is its cauliflorous fruiting nature — a trait where fruit grows directly from the trunk, much like the famous Jaboticaba. This botanical phenomenon adds both aesthetic and scientific intrigue, especially for those who appreciate rare and exotic traits in fruit-bearing plants.
The fruits ripen into an inviting bright orange shade.
The shell is firm, offering protection to the inner pulp.
Within lies a sweet, gelatinous flesh, known for its dessert-like quality.
The flavor of Clavija fruit is a pure delight — deeply sweet, silky, and refreshing. The gelatinous texture melts effortlessly on the tongue, making it a superb natural treat. It can be eaten straight from the tree once ripe or chilled for an even more enjoyable experience.
How to Enjoy It:
Fresh as a fruit snack
Blended into smoothies or desserts
Served chilled as a tropical palate cleanser
Its non-acidic sweetness makes it a favorite even among children and those with a preference for milder tropical flavors.
While Clavija sp remains relatively unknown to the wider world, it holds quiet significance in the native communities of Colombia where it grows wild. Often admired for its striking growth and rare fruiting behavior, it is also seen as a symbol of abundance and biodiversity in Andean forest ecosystems.
Though scientific data on Clavija’s precise nutritional content is limited, like many wild tropical fruits, it is believed to offer:
Natural sugars for energy
Hydrating properties from its jelly-like pulp
Likely sources of antioxidants and fiber, as found in similar cauliflorous species
Low acidity, making it gentle on the stomach
Incorporating Clavija fruit into your diet can be a refreshing addition to your natural fruit intake and may contribute to hydration, digestion, and natural sweetness without added sugars.
Clavija is not just rare in the wild — it also demands a thoughtful touch when grown. However, for the passionate grower or collector, its rewards are unmatched.
Plant Characteristics:
Reaches a height of around 4 meters
Grows well in tropical and sub-tropical climates
Prefers partial shade and well-drained soil
Likes high humidity and consistent watering
Maintenance Tips:
Protect young plants from heavy direct sun
Enrich the soil with organic compost
Keep humidity high, mimicking its cloud forest origins
Prune lightly to maintain shape and promote healthy branching
The fruit is best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in a cool space for a few days. Due to its firm outer shell, it travels better than many soft tropical fruits. Harvest fruits once they turn fully orange and feel slightly soft on the outside.
Clavija’s presence is primarily noted in Colombia, but interest is growing in Costa Rica and certain parts of Ecuador, where tropical collectors and botanical gardens have started to appreciate its rarity.
At Veliyath Gardens, the Clavija sp is gaining popularity, and availability is often limited due to high demand and the difficulty in propagation. As a result, this plant is part of a curated list of highly sought-after exotic species available on a seasonal basis.
Bringing plants like Clavija sp into our gardens isn't just about growing fruit — it’s about nurturing biodiversity, preserving rare species, and experiencing the joy of cultivating something truly unique. At Veliyath Gardens, we’ve taken the initiative to not only provide such rare gems but to educate our visitors through detailed information. This marks a first-of-its-kind movement to make exotic, lesser-known fruit plants accessible and understood.
If you’re a fruit lover, plant collector, or garden enthusiast, Clavija sp is your next must-have. Make space for this Andean beauty in your life — not just for its fruit, but for the story it brings with every bloom and harvest.
