Feijoa, Pineapple Guava
acca sellowiana
Also known as: ["Feijoa sellowiana","Pineapple Guava"]
Overview
A small evergreen tree or shrub native to South America, known for its edible fruit and attractive flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Genus: | Acca |
| Botanical Name: | Acca sellowiana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot, or container on a patio
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter; cactus mix or sandy loam works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plants for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure good drainage, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, fertile, slightly acidic soil
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure good drainage; maintain slightly acidic pH; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures (50–80°F or 10–27°C); can tolerate light frosts but thrives in moderate climates.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; maintain moderate humidity in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilizing; water before and after feeding to prevent root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood stem cuttings or layering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is active.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pots after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading back to control size; selective removal of weak or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or diseased wood; focus on maintaining air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/diseased wood; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for nutrient replenishment.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone, until water seeps into the soil but does not pool. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth; reduce frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks, allowing soil to dry partially between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use acidic soil amendments if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; wilting or browning in frost.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl, turn brown, or drop; growth slows or halts; frost can damage buds and flowers.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or mulch; avoid planting in frost-prone areas; choose cold-hardy cultivars if needed.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; growth may slow in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring/after flowering; water before and after.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; apply again after flowering; avoid high-nitrogen formulas.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAcca sellowiana is not considered toxic to cats. The fruit is safe for consumption in moderation, and other parts of the plant do not pose significant risks.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicAcca sellowiana is not considered toxic to dogs. The fruit is safe for consumption in moderation, and other parts of the plant do not pose significant risks.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicAcca sellowiana, commonly known as feijoa, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The fruit is edible and widely consumed, while other parts of the plant are not typically ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Feijoa safe for pets?
A: Yes, Feijoa is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How do I grow Feijoa from seed?
A: Sow seeds in well-draining soil, keep moist, and provide full sun to partial shade.
Q: What are the uses of Feijoa fruit?
A: The fruit is edible, often eaten fresh, used in jams, or added to desserts.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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