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Red Malaysian Guava 
Psidium guajava


One of the only known red-ripening guava's having beautiful red-skinned fruits with sweet pinkish pulp. The tree itself is highly ornamental, with deep red colored leaves and heavenly pink flowers.

Description: Short to medium sized, bushy tree to 10-15ft. Trees generally flower during summer with fruits ripening during winter months.

Hardiness:


Growing Environment: Guava's grow well in full sun, except in hot regions, where partial shade is beneficial. If trying to grow in a marginal climate, plant near a building or provide some sort of protection from damaging cold winds and rain. Generally, guava's are fairly adaptable and will flourish with little care. Flowers will self-pollinate and fruit develops in a few months. There may be multiple fruiting and flowering seasons throughout the year, depending on local climate conditions. Guava's are shallow rooted and prefer lots of moisture throughout the year (except if cold), although they will withstand periods of drought, as well as dry seasonal changes. Keep the soil especially moist during flower and fruit set. The guava will tolerate poor soils, but grows much better when fertilized monthly, or when grown in soil that is high in organic material. They are not tolerant of salty soils.

Propagation: The specific variety is often propagated by grafting, air-layering and root cuttings. It can be grown from seed. Seedlings can show variability, but generally come fairly true to their parent. Warm soil temperature (70-85F) is important in germination.

Uses: Guava's can be eaten fresh but are often used to flavor drinks, desserts, sauces, preserves, and many other food products.

Native Range: Native to southern Mexico and Central America. Was long ago spread throughout the American tropics, Asia, Africa and Pacific Islands. The guava is an invasive pest species in some parts of the world, particularly on Pacific Islands.