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PSIDIUM GUAJAVA - GUAVA.
Common name:guava, jambu klutuk, amrud, guyaba.
Family: Myrtaceae (Myrtle family). Overview Guava is a small tropical tree that grows up to 35 feet tall; it has spreading branches and smooth bark. The leathery leaves are opposite oblong-elliptic and have pronounced veins. When crushed they are aromatic. The flowers are white and somewhat fragrant. Although a tropical species, the tree can withstand some cold for a short period of time but no more than a few degrees of frost! Guava is widely grown for its fruit in the tropics. It has a distinctive fresh aroma with a sweet musk odor and the vitamin C content is higher than in citrus. The juicy, fruit pulp is used in drinks or made into jelly. In Suriname's traditional medicine, the whole guava-plant is used. The leaves and bark are used for diarrhea and dysentery, for stomach upsets and to regulate menstrual periods. Guava has anti-bacterial activity and hypoglycemic properties. Hardiness: USDA zone 9 - 11. Propagation: seeds. Culture: sun, moist soil, protect from frost, serious damage occurs at 26° F. |