Strawberry Guava

(Psidium cattleianum)

Strawberry Guava (Psidium cattleianum)

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Psidium cattleianum Native Range
Native Range
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Climate Requirements

• Precipitation 47" - 90"
• High Temp. 74°F - 87°F
• Low Temp. 46°F - 62°F

Summary

Psidium cattleianum, commonly known as Strawberry Guava, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Atlantic Forest ecoregion in Southern Brazil and parts of Uruguay, where it thrives in various habitats including rainforests, forest edges, and clearings. It typically grows to a height of 2 to 4 meters but can reach up to 13 meters under ideal conditions. Strawberry Guava is characterized by its smooth, reddish-brown bark and dense branching. The plant produces aromatic white flowers with five petals, either singly or in clusters of three, which bloom throughout the year in its native range. The fruits are about 4 cm long, with thin skin that can be yellow, red, or purple, and contain a sweet, fragrant pulp that is highly prized. The fruiting occurs when the plants are between 3 and 6 years old.

Strawberry Guava is valued for its edible fruit, ornamental qualities, and as a hedge or screen plant in tropical and subtropical gardens. It is adaptable to a range of soil types, provided they offer good drainage. While it prefers full sun, it can tolerate partial shade. However, it is highly invasive throughout the tropics and is considered the most invasive plant in Hawaiʻi, outcompeting native flora and altering ecological dynamics; gardeners should consult local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
  • Height: 10-20 feet
  • Width: 10-20 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Hedges, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to the Atlantic Forest ecoregion in Southern Brazil and parts of Uruguay, including rainforests, forest edges, and clearings

Other Names

Common Names: Cherry Guava, Cattley Guava, Purple Guava, Aarbei Koejawel, Araçá, Araçá-Amarelo, Araçá-De-Coroa, Smultronguava, Araçá-Da-Praia, Araçá-De-Comer

Scientific Names: Psidium cattleianum, Psidium littorale, Psidium littorale var. longipes, Psidium cattleianum var. cattleianum, Psidium cattleianum var. littorale, Psidium variabile, Psidium cattleyanum f. lucidum, Psidium obovatum, Eugenia urceolata

GBIF Accepted Name: Psidium cattleianum Afzel. ex Sabine