CHILEAN GUAVA

Ugni molinae

Chilean Guava, also known as Tazziberry or tropical guava, is an evergreen shrub with stunning flowers and fruits. They're loved for their delicious smell – think kiwi, strawberry and something a little spicier, almost like bubblegum. It can be grown in place of traditional box hedging and also in pots. A low maintenance plant with no pest or disease problems, it will need a sunny, sheltered spot to induce the plant to fruit.

PLANT

All year round.

HARVEST

Slowly through the summer the flowers turn to fruit that ripen into dark berries in autumn and into winter. The berries are a dark red, but just before they turn fully ripe their colour fades slightly to a paler pinkish tone and they swell to a more rounded shape. The trick is in leaving them attached just that little longer than you feel comfortable with. Try a few before you pick the rest to be sure they are ready. The plant is compact, approximately 1 metre across and, unpruned, can reach a similar height.

EAT

Fruits can be eaten straight from the bush and make a fabulous alternative to cranberries and blueberries.

PRESERVE

They also make great jam.

RECIPES

Click here for a delicious chilean guava tart.