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Description
Aextoxicon punctatum, also known as the Chilean guava, is a slow-growing evergreen shrub native to Chile. It has a dense, compact growth habit and can reach a height of up to 5 meters. The leaves are leathery, glossy, and dark green with a pointed oval shape. In the spring, it produces small, white, fragrant flowers that give way to edible, red, berry-like fruit. The fruit is sweet, with a unique flavor that is similar to a cross between a strawberry and a kiwi.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Oxalidales |
| Family | Escalloniaceae |
| Genus | Aextoxicon |
Appearance
Aextoxicon punctatum has a dense, compact growth habit with leathery, glossy, dark green leaves that are 5-10 cm long and 3-5 cm wide. The leaves have a pointed oval shape and are arranged alternately on the stems. In the spring, it produces small, white, fragrant flowers that are 1-2 cm in diameter. The fruit is spherical, 1-2 cm in diameter, and initially green before turning red when ripe. The fruit is edible, with a sweet and unique flavor that is similar to a cross between a strawberry and a kiwi.
Care Guide
Aextoxicon punctatum prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It should be watered regularly, but not overwatered, as this can lead to root rot. Fertilize every spring with a balanced fertilizer. It prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aextoxicon punctatum is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to scale insects and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Aextoxicon punctatum is native to Chile and is found in the temperate rainforests of southern Chile. It typically grows in areas with high rainfall and prefers well-draining soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Aextoxicon Punctatum drought-tolerant?
A: No, Aextoxicon punctatum prefers regular watering and is not drought-tolerant.
Q: Can Aextoxicon Punctatum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Aextoxicon punctatum can be grown in containers, but it may not reach its full height potential.
Q: Is Aextoxicon Punctatum deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Aextoxicon punctatum is deer-resistant.
Q: Can the fruit of Aextoxicon Punctatum be eaten?
A: Yes, the fruit of Aextoxicon punctatum is edible and has a sweet and unique flavor that is similar to a cross between a strawberry and a kiwi.
Related Plants
- Aextoxicon punctatum var. mollicomum
- Aextoxicon punctatum var. punctatum
- Aextoxicon punctatum var. subcordatum
- Aextoxicon punctatum f. subcordatum
References
- “Aextoxicon punctatum.” Floridata. Accessed September 1, 2021. https://floridata.com/plant/989.
- “Aextoxicon punctatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 1, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286947.
- “Aextoxicon punctatum.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed September 1, 2021. https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantab/aextoxpunct.htm.
