Cherry Strawberry Guava

The Strawberry Guava:  Psidium cattleyanum

It is a charming small fruit tree native to the lush Amazon Basin of Brazil. Its adaptability and relatively easy-care nature make it a popular choice for home gardens in a variety of climates. This tree offers a delightful combination of ornamental appeal, delicious edible fruit, and practical uses.

Fruit and Flavour: The Strawberry Guava produces small, round fruits, typically about 1-2 inches in diameter. The skin can range in color from yellow to deep red, often blushing with a beautiful pink or purplish hue when ripe, resembling a strawberry, hence its common name. The flesh is white or pinkish, juicy, and boasts a unique sweet-tart flavor, often described as a blend of strawberry, guava, and pineapple notes. These fruits can be eaten fresh, made into jams, jellies, juices, or even used in desserts.

Growth Habits and Appearance: The Strawberry Guava is a slow-growing, evergreen shrub or small tree, usually reaching heights of 10-20 feet, though it can be kept smaller with pruning. It has attractive, glossy, dark green leaves that provide a lush backdrop to the colorful fruit. The tree also produces small, white, fragrant flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Cultivation: This guava is relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate a range of soil types, though it prefers well-drained soil. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. Once established, it is reasonably drought-tolerant. It can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Pruning can help maintain its shape and encourage fruit production.

Uses Beyond Fruit: Beyond its delicious fruit, the Strawberry Guava has a history of traditional medicinal use in its native regions. Different parts of the plant have been used to treat various ailments, though scientific research on these uses is still ongoing. The tree's hard, durable wood is also valued for crafting tools and as a source of firewood.

Climate Adaptability: One of the Strawberry Guava's most appealing characteristics is its adaptability to a range of climates. It flourishes in temperate, subtropical, and tropical regions, making it a versatile choice for gardeners in many parts of the world. It can tolerate some light frost but is not extremely cold-hardy.

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