Psidium guajava (Yellow Guava) is a small fruiting tree that is native to the Caribbean, Central America and South America. Yellow Guava is a popular fruit wherever the climates are warm and humid. Guavas themselves are high in Vitamins A, B, and C and are commonly eaten raw or made into jams and jelly.
Suitable for Sub-Tropical and Tropical climates.
Psidium guajava is also commonly referred to as the Common Guava, Lemon Guava and Apple Guava. Unfortunately, the Yellow Guava often escapes from cultivation and is considered a noxious weed in many tropical regions.
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Growth
Psidium guajava is a fruiting evergreen tree that grows to a height of up to 6 metres (20 feet) and a width of up to 4 metres (13 feet). Less cold tolerant than its relative, the Strawberry Guava, the Yellow Guava enjoys warm, humid climates that provide consistent rain. In tropical climates, the tree will flower all year round and continually produce fruits.
When established, the Yellow Guava can withstand temperatures as low as 0°C / 32°F but not for long periods. Consistent temperatures above 15°C / 59°F are required for fruit to set, as is consistent rain, but a dry period is required to avoid spoilage during ripening.
Compared to most tropical plants, Psidium guajava is relatively drought tolerant but still requires at least 1000mm (40 inches) per year.
In good conditions, Yellow Guavas can start flowering in around two years but more often than not it takes 4-5 years for the tree to begin fruiting. Trees around five years can produce up to 40kg per year while the peak ages of 7-10 years can bring 50-70kg.
Note: Germination instructions can be found in the ‘Germination Instructions Tab’ below. Upon purchase you will receive these detailed instructions via email so that you have a permanent record.
For additional information visit our Growers Notes page or the list of the best gardening websites or check out the article about how to use your waste at home as a natural fertiliser.
FAMILY:
Myrtaceae
CLIMATE:
Sub-Tropical and Tropical.
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
0°C to 30°C / 32 to 86°F
SOIL TYPE:
Well-draining.
LOCATION:
Full Sun.
HEIGHT:
Up to 6 metres (20 feet)
WIDTH:
Up to 4 metres (13 feet)
pH:
5.5-7.5
GROWTH TYPE:
Perennial.
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Medium.
POLLINATION:
Pollinated by Bees.
MATURITY:
4-5 years.
GERMINATION RATES:
65-80%
GERMINATION TIME:
4-6 weeks.
GERMINATION DIFFICULTY:
Easy.
SEEDS PER GRAM:
Approximately 20
MEDICINAL QUALITIES:
Yes.
WEED POTENTIAL:
Yes.
EDIBLE:
Yes.
SEED STORAGE & VIABILITY:
Cold Storage at 4°C (Fridge) up to 4 years.
FACTS ABOUT PSIDIUM GUAJAVA (Yellow Guava)
The wood of a Guava tree is commonly used in Hawaii to smoke meat. It is resistant to insects and fungal attacks and is used in Nigeria to build roof trusses.
Psidium guajava is used in traditional medicine throughout much of Latin America to treat inflammation, hypertension, wounds, pain relief, fevers, ulcers and diabetes.
As well as the leaves being used as fodder for livestock, the plant is also growing in popularity for use in shampoos due to its fragrant scent.
For further information about the Yellow Guava please click here.
