Psidium guajava, known as the common guava, is a perennial shrubby tree belonging to the myrtle family, Myrtaceae. Psidium guajava is native to the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. P. guajava are short shrubby trees that reach up to 20 feet tall with 15 feet wide canopies at maturity. The leaves are dark green, simple, and slightly ovate while oppositely arranged. Leaves also typically measure 3 to 6 inches long with prominent mid veins. This species flowers during spring and summer when temperatures rise. The fruit are small and round with a greenish yellow skin and pink to white flesh depending on the variety. Psidium guajava is grown as a food and medicinal crop. The plant has been used traditionally by the people of the Caribbean to treat diabetes, wounds, and inflammation. The fruit are edible to humans while the leaves can be used as fodder for animals. Psidium guajava grows best in well draining soils that are rich in organic matter, sitting in full sun to partial shade. It is a drought tolerant tree that benefits from regular watering while establishing. USDA plant hardiness zone 9a to 11b.
Psidium guajava seeds require scarification of their hard seed coat before sowing. Use a file, sandpaper, or nail clipper to slightly damage the outer seed coat so water can penetrate the seed. After scarification, lightly press seeds into the soil being sure to cover them, but not plant too deep. Sown seeds require consistent moisture but the soil should not remain soaking wet. Soil should be moist and well-draining, and kept between 75°F to 85°F for best results. Germination typically takes 2 to 8 weeks to occur. Even with optimal conditions, germination may be slow and sporadic.