Strawberry Guava
psidium cattleianum
Also known as: ["Cattley Guava","Red Guava"]
Overview
A small evergreen tree or shrub native to Brazil, known for its small, sweet, strawberry-like fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Genus: | Psidium |
| Botanical Name: | Psidium cattleianum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm climates, or container in cooler regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if indoor and dry
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
- 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 in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after fruiting if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually; protect from intense midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; provide dappled light in hot regions.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5) for optimal nutrient uptake.
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test soil pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); can tolerate brief dips to 30°F (-1°C) but thrives in mild conditions.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; avoid placing near drafty windows or heat sources.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; water after fertilizing to distribute nutrients; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut just below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–80°F / 21–27°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone to improve success rate.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth may take 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a bud or branch junction; thin out crowded areas to allow light penetration.
Pruning Plan
Prune to shape the plant, improve air circulation, and encourage fruit production; remove dead or diseased wood regularly.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution (e.g., rubbing alcohol or bleach).
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or fruiting.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season; monitor leaf health.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone; ensure water penetrates deeply to encourage deep roots; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot; adjust based on humidity and rainfall.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use pine bark or peat moss to lower pH if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, slowed growth, or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Stem dieback, leaf necrosis, and reduced fruit production due to cellular damage from freezing temperatures.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; cover with frost cloth during cold snaps; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced fruit set due to excessive transpiration and heat stress.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; mist foliage during extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose appropriate fertilizer; apply at correct dilution; water before and after; follow seasonal schedule; monitor plant response.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring; repeat every 6–8 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPsidium cattleianum is generally non-toxic to cats. The fruits are safe for consumption in moderation, and the plant does not pose a significant risk to feline health.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPsidium cattleianum is generally non-toxic to dogs. The fruits are safe for consumption in moderation, and the plant does not pose a significant risk to canine health.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe unripe fruits of Psidium cattleianum can cause mild gastrointestinal distress due to their high tannin content. The ripe fruits are generally safe for consumption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Strawberry Guava invasive?
A: Yes, it can be invasive in some regions, particularly in Hawaii and parts of Asia.
Q: How do you propagate Strawberry Guava?
A: It can be propagated by seeds or cuttings.
Q: What are the uses of Strawberry Guava?
A: The fruits are edible and used in jams, jellies, and beverages; the plant also has some medicinal uses.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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