[2] The flowers are white to yellowish, slightly fragrant, calyx bell-shaped, corolla at 2–4.5 cm long, trumpet-shaped, and five- or six-lobed.

[2][6][7] It is present from sea level up to 1200 m of elevation,[4] although some argue the original native range as being northern South America.

[10] The unripe fruit of G. americana yields a liquid used as a dye for tattoos, skin painting, insect repellent[7] and food.

[14] This species is also cultivated for its edible fruits, which are eaten in preserves or made into drinks, jelly, or ice cream.

[7] The wood is reported to be resistant, strong, and easily worked; it is used in the making of utensils and in construction and carpentry.