Loading…
Cattley Guava is an evergreen fruiting shrub or small tree with edible red or yellow fruit. It spreads readily and is classified as invasive in South Florida.
| Mature Height: | 10–20 ft. |
|---|---|
| Mature Width: | 10–15 ft. |
| Sunlight: | Full Sun (6–8+ Hours) |
| Water Needs: | Moderate |
| Growth Rate: | Moderate |
| Botanical Name: | Psidium cattleyanum |
| Grows Well In Zones: | USDA Zones: 9-11 |
Cattley Guava – An Evergreen Shrub with Edible Tropical Fruit
Produces small, sweet-tart fruit and white flowers.
Cattley Guava, also known as Strawberry Guava (Psidium cattleianum), is an evergreen fruiting shrub or small tree that typically grows 10–20 feet tall and 10–15 feet wide. It has glossy green leaves, dense branching, and can grow larger under favorable conditions.
This plant grows in full sun to partial shade and adapts to sandy, well-drained soils. Locations receiving more direct sunlight generally support better flowering and fruit production.
Small white flowers develop into rounded, edible fruit with a sweet-tart flavor. Red-fruited varieties are commonly called Strawberry Guava, while yellow-fruited selections are often called Lemon Guava. The fruit can be eaten fresh or used in jams, jellies, and preserves.
Newly planted Cattley Guava needs regular watering while its roots become established. Mature plants tolerate moderate dry periods but benefit from consistent moisture during flowering and fruitdevelopment.
Cattley Guava is classified as invasive in South Florida. It spreads through underground shoots and seeds carried by birds and other wildlife. Over time, it can form dense stands that displace nativevegetation. The University of Florida recommends against planting this species in South Florida.
Existing plants should be monitored for unwanted growth. Harvest fruit promptly, collect fallen fruit, and remove new shoots to help limit its spread. However, these steps do not prevent seeds from spreading into surrounding areas.
Why You'll Love It
Edible Fruit: Produces small, aromatic fruit with a sweet-tart flavor suitable for fresh eating, jams, jellies, and preserves.
Fruit Color Varieties: Available in red-fruited and yellow-fruited selections, with flavor and appearance varying by type.
Evergreen Foliage: Maintains glossy green leaves throughout the year in warm growing conditions.
Flowers and Fruit: Produces white flowers followed by edible fruit, generally during the warmer growing season.
Sun Requirements: Grows in full sun to partial shade, with brighter sunlight generally supporting better fruit production.
Water Needs: Requires regular watering during establishment and supplemental moisture during extended dry periods.
Mature Size: Approximately 10–20 feet tall and 10–15 feet wide, with larger growth possible.
Growing Considerations: Classified as invasive in South Florida and not recommended for new landscape planting. Existing plants should be monitored for spreading shoots and unwanted seedlings.
No reviews yet. Be the first to write one.
