Acca Sellowiana

Description

Acca Sellowiana is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Myrtaceae. It is also known as Pineapple Guava, Brazilian Guava, or Feijoa. It is native to South America, specifically Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay, and has also been introduced to other parts of the world, including New Zealand, Australia, and the United States.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Acca Sellowiana is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 5-6 meters in height. It has evergreen leaves that are dark green on top and pale green underneath, with a silvery sheen. The leaves are oblong in shape, about 5-12 cm long and 3-6 cm wide. The flowers are large and showy, with four petals that are white, pink, or red in color, and numerous stamens. The fruit is a green or grayish-green, ellipsoid or ovoid berry, about 2.5-6 cm long, with a sweet and tangy flavor. The fruit is ripe when it falls from the tree and has a soft texture.

Care Guide

Acca Sellowiana is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some attention to ensure its growth and health. Here are some care tips:

• Water: The plant prefers moderate watering, so water it once a week or when the topsoil feels dry. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two to three months during the growing season (spring and summer).
• Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Acca Sellowiana can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers a warm, humid climate. It can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Acca Sellowiana is generally a healthy plant, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some common ones:

• Scale insects: These small, oval-shaped insects can attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant, causing yellowing and wilting. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
• Mites: These tiny creatures can cause damage to the leaves and flowers, leading to discoloration and deformation. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
• Brown rot: This fungal disease can cause the fruit to rot and drop prematurely. Remove any affected fruit and prune the affected branches. Use fungicide to control it.

Habitat

Acca Sellowiana is native to South America, specifically Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay, and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and coastal areas. It prefers well-draining soil and a warm, humid climate, but it can tolerate some drought and frost.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Acca Sellowiana be grown in a container?
A: Yes, it can be grown in a container, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and use a well-draining potting mix.

Q: How often should I prune Acca Sellowiana?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased branches.

Q: Is Acca Sellowiana self-fertile?
A: No, it requires cross-pollination from another Acca Sellowiana plant to produce fruit.

Q: Can I propagate Acca Sellowiana from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer or early autumn. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix.

Related Plants

• Myrtus communis (Common Myrtle)
• Eugenia uniflora (Surinam Cherry)
• Psidium guajava (Guava)
• Syzygium cumini (Java Plum)

References

• “Acca Sellowiana.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282378&isprofile=0&cv=2.
• “Acca Sellowiana.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/13760/acca-sellowiana/details.
• “Feijoa.” University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp559.