Psidium cattleianum
Strawberry guava (Psidium cattleianum; also strawberry guava; cattley guava; cherry guava) is a Myrtaceae fruit plant grown for its berry. This page treats the accepted species name as canonical and uses the common name as a navigational alias.
| Strawberry guava (Psidium cattleianum ) | |
|---|---|
| Scientific name | Psidium cattleianum |
| Genus | Psidium |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Fruit type | Berry |
| Growth form | Evergreen shrub or small tree |
| Climate and hardiness | Subtropical to tropical; more cold-tolerant than common guava |
| Mature height | 2–8 m |
| Mature width | 2–6 m |
| Soil | Adaptable and well-drained; tolerates acid soils and some poorer ground |
| Water | Moderate moisture; drought-tolerant once established |
| Sun | Full sun to light shade |
| Germination | 2–8 weeks from seed; seedlings vary |
| Years to fruit | 2–4 years from seed |
| Pollination | Self-fertile; insects improve fruit set |
| Harvest | Seasonal in subtropics, often extended or repeated in the tropics |
Identification and description
Strawberry guava is a compact Psidium with glossy leaves and small red or yellow fruits carrying a strong berry-like aroma. It is useful in small gardens but can naturalize aggressively in some humid regions.
The accepted genus, family, and order are Psidium, Myrtaceae, and Myrtales. Common names may cover related taxa; check the scientific name before transferring cultivation advice.
Growing
Native habitats range from coastal and forest-edge areas to subtropical vegetation. The plant tolerates more cold and drought than common guava, but fruit quality and vigor improve with sun, moisture, and fertile soil. Control suckers and volunteer seedlings where the species is invasive.
Soil
Adaptable and well-drained; tolerates acid soils and some poorer ground.
Sun and humidity
Full sun to light shade. Native habitat and airflow matter as much as light intensity; avoid enclosing humid foliage without ventilation.
Seasonal changes
Flowering often follows a warm flush or renewed rain. In subtropical climates the main crop develops during warm months; in equatorial conditions several crops may occur. Reduce water only during cool weather and never let containers stay saturated.
Propagation
Seed is easy and produces productive plants, though fruit may vary. Cuttings and air-layers can preserve selected plants; grafting is less commonly needed because the species fruits young.
Flowering, fruiting, and harvest
Seasonal in subtropics, often extended or repeated in the tropics. Flowering and ripening are strongly affected by latitude, cultivar, rootstock, rainfall, and temperature; local records are more useful than a single universal calendar.
Fruit and uses
Eat ripe berries fresh or use them for juice, jelly, jam, syrups, and desserts. The aromatic skin is edible. Harvest promptly because fully ripe fruit softens quickly.
Photos
No verified Commons image is included yet; add one only after checking the individual file page and license.
Commentary
Growers are invited to share observations about Strawberry guava on the talk page, especially climate, provenance, propagation method, plant age, flowering season, and fruit quality.