Contents
Description
Psidium Cattleianum, commonly known as Cattley guava, strawberry guava or cherry guava, is a small tree or shrub that belongs to the myrtle family. It is native to South America but has been widely introduced to other parts of the world, including the Caribbean, Hawaii, and Florida. The plant is known for its sweet and fragrant fruit, which is enjoyed by both humans and animals.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Genus | Psidium |
Appearance
The Psidium Cattleianum plant can grow up to 20 feet tall, but it is usually smaller in size. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with an oval shape and a pointed tip. The plant produces small, white flowers that are followed by round or oval-shaped fruits. The fruit is about 1-2 inches in diameter and has a reddish-yellow skin with a sweet and tangy pulp inside. The seeds are small and numerous, embedded in the pulp.
Care Guide
To care for the Psidium Cattleianum plant, you should follow these guidelines:- Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth and fruit production.- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic pH level.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Psidium Cattleianum plant is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:- Fruit fly: This pest can damage the fruit and reduce yield.- Scale insects: These insects can cause leaf drop and weaken the plant.- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spots and fruit rot.To prevent these problems, you should practice good hygiene and sanitation, remove infected plant parts, and use appropriate insecticides or fungicides.
Habitat
The Psidium Cattleianum plant is native to South America but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including the Caribbean, Hawaii, and Florida. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, fields, and disturbed areas. It prefers warm and humid climates with regular rainfall.
Question and Answer
1. Q: How long does it take for the Psidium Cattleianum plant to bear fruit?A: The plant usually bears fruit within 3-4 years of planting.2. Q: Is the Psidium Cattleianum plant self-fertile?A: No, the plant requires cross-pollination to produce fruit.3. Q: Can the Psidium Cattleianum plant tolerate frost?A: No, the plant is sensitive to frost and should be protected during cold weather.4. Q: How can I propagate the Psidium Cattleianum plant?A: The plant can be propagated by seed or cuttings.
Related Plants
– Psidium Guajava (common guava)- Psidium Friederichsthalianum (Costa Rican guava)- Psidium Cattleyanum Var. Lucidum (yellow strawberry guava)
References
– “Psidium Cattleianum.” Floridata, www.floridata.com/plant/821. – “Psidium Cattleianum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287168&isprofile=0& – “Strawberry Guava.” University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/HS/HS23900.pdf.
