Strawberry Guava (Psidium cattleianum)

Strawberry Guava
Scientific Name: Psidium cattleianum Sabine
Synonym: Psidium littorale
Family: Myrtaceae

Show Larger Picture Recommended Temperature Zone:
sunset: 9,13,14 (in sheltered locations), 15-24
USDA: 9,10

Frost Tolerance: Can withstand short periods of temperature as low as 24° F.
Heat Tolerance: Avoid full sun in Phoenix in summer for young trees
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Origin: Brazil
Growth Habits: Evergreen shrubs or small trees.
Watering Needs: It can withstand short periods of drought.
Propagation: Propagate by seed, cutting or air layering

The Strawberry Guava or Cattley Guava from Brazil is a close relative of the tropical guava (Psidium guajava); it is more suited to the subtropics than is the tropical guava. The strawberry guava can be grown wherever citrus succeeds. It is a bushy plant 10 to 20 feet high (rarely more than 10 feet in Phoenix), with smooth, glossy-green leaves.

Fruiting Habits:
The fruit matures mid summer (August in Phoenix). It is edible, tasting somewhat between tropical guava and strawberry. It can be eaten raw or made into jam or jelly.

Propagation:
There are no selected varieties. It's best to propagate plants that are well adapted to desert weather and still produce sweet fruit. Propagate by seed, cutting or air layering

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