Guava
Psidium guajava
Common guava
About this plant
Psidium guajava, commonly known as guava, is a tropical fruit tree known for its sweet, aromatic fruit. It has broad, evergreen leaves and produces white flowers that develop into round or oval fruits with green, yellow, or pink skin. Guava is widely grown for fresh eating, juices, and jams. It is valued for its nutritional content, including vitamin C.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Psidium
- Family
- Myrtaceae
- Higher classification
- Myrtales
- Plant type
- Tree
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Central America, northern South America
- Distribution
- Native to tropical America, guava is now widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 5 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 20–30 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9–11
- Soil pH
- 5.5–7.0
- Soil type
- well-draining loam, sandy loam
Watering. Water guava trees regularly during dry periods, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Feed guava trees with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season. Organic compost or manure can also be applied to improve soil fertility.
Guava trees are fairly hardy and prefer full sun with well-draining soil. They tolerate drought once established but need regular watering during dry periods. Watch for pests like fruit flies and fungal diseases if humidity is high. Pruning helps maintain shape and encourages fruit production.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings, Grafting
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring–summer
Attractive glossy green leaves, fragrant white flowers, and colorful edible fruits.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Low spread
Guava is safe to eat and non-toxic to humans and pets. However, some people may have mild skin irritation from the sap.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Moderate
Psidium guajava, or guava, may cause mild allergic reactions in some people sensitive to its pollen or sap. Symptoms can include skin irritation or sneezing. To reduce exposure, avoid direct contact with the sap and keep the area clean of fallen leaves and fruit.
Common problems
Common problems include fruit flies damaging the fruit, fungal infections in humid climates, and leaf spot diseases. Overwatering can cause root rot, while insufficient sunlight reduces fruit yield.
Uses
Guava is grown mainly for its sweet edible fruit, which can be eaten fresh or used in juices, jams, and desserts. It is also planted as an ornamental tree in gardens and landscapes.
Notes
Prune guava trees annually to remove dead wood and shape the tree. They can be grown in large containers but need ample sunlight and space. Protect young trees from frost and strong winds.