Pineapple Guava: A Tropical Treat for Your Garden

Pineapple Guava: A Tropical Treat for Your Garden

Pineapple guava (Feijoa sellowiana) is a stunning evergreen shrub that combines beauty with delicious fruit. Native to the highlands of South America, this hardy plant thrives in a range of climates, making it perfect for gardens in USDA zones 8 to 11. Known for its aromatic, tropical-flavored fruit that tastes like a mix of pineapple, guava, and mint, pineapple guava is a unique addition to any edible landscape. Whether you're looking for a plant that offers ornamental value or a fresh fruiting shrub, pineapple guava is a fantastic choice for gardeners.

Key Facts about Pineapple Guava

Sun Requirements: Pineapple guava prefers full sun but can tolerate some light shade. It needs at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to thrive and produce fruit.

Water Requirements: Once established, pineapple guava is moderately drought- tolerant. However, it benefits from regular watering during dry periods, especially while the fruit is developing. It prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s best to allow the soil to dry out between waterings.

Height: 10–15 feet tall.

Spread: 6–10 feet wide, creating a dense, bushy form.

Natural Habitat: Native to the subtropical regions of South America, especially Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina, pineapple guava thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soil and enjoys mild winters. It is commonly found in regions with cool winters and warm, dry summers.

Uses: eapple guava is primarily grown for its edible fruit, which has a unique flavor reminiscent of pineapple, mint, and guava. The fruit is often eaten fresh, or it can be used in jams, jellies, and desserts. The plant is also an attractive ornamental shrub, offering beautiful silvery-green foliage and striking flowers.

When to Harvest: The fruit is ready to harvest when it falls from the tree, typically in late fall or early winter.

Recipe: Pineapple guava makes a delightful jam with its sweet and tangy flavor. Try this Pineapple Guava Jam.

Companion Plants

• Lemon Verbena

• Olives

• Lavender