Guava / Perakka (Red Seedless, Layer) Fruit Plant

Strawberry Guava (Psidium cattleianum) is a tropical fruit tree producing pear-shaped fruits with green rind and pinkish or white flesh containing small seeds. The fruit is typically 4 to 12 cm long and may be round or oval depending on the variety. The outer skin can be rough with a slightly bitter taste or soft and sweet. It is usually green when immature and turns yellow, maroon, or green when ripe. The fruit has a strong characteristic fragrance, and the pulp ranges from sweet to sour, from off-white to deep pink, with variable seed number and hardness depending on the species.

The plant grows best in full sun to partial shade but cannot tolerate excessive heat. It is highly sensitive to frost, and mature trees may drop leaves during winter while young plants may be damaged. New growth begins in spring. Strawberry guava prefers well-drained soil and is sensitive to waterlogging, making proper soil management essential for healthy growth.

Fruit matures within 2–4 months after flowering. It remains hard and green initially, then changes color and becomes softer as it ripens. Fruits can also ripen after harvest when stored at room temperature. Harvest is best done when fruits are fully colored and fragrant, or slightly earlier for a tangier taste.

For planting, strawberry guava should be grown in full sun or partial shade with proper spacing and good soil drainage. It adapts to a wide range of soils but performs best in deep, fertile, well-drained soil with a pH range of 4.5 to 8.2. Avoid saline or waterlogged conditions as they can reduce plant health and yield.