The Waiawi plant (Psidium cattleianum), native to Brazil, is a fruit-bearing shrub or small evergreen tree commonly known as the Strawberry Guava or Cattley Guava. It features glossy, dark green, leathery leaves and typically grows between 3 and 6 meters tall, sometimes reaching up to 9 meters. The fruit is a small, round berry, 1.5 to 4 centimeters in diameter, with deep wine-red or purple skin. Inside is a white, aromatic, sweet-tart pulp. Its pleasant flavor, often compared to a blend of strawberry and guava, makes the Waiawi fruit sought after for fresh consumption and processing.
Ideal Growing Conditions and Planting
The Waiawi plant thrives in climates mirroring its tropical origin, requiring warm temperatures for growth and fruit production. The ideal temperature range is 70 to 85°F (21–29°C). It is sensitive to frost, though mature specimens tolerate brief, light freezes better than young plants. Cultivation is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 10A through 11, where humidity levels are moderate to high.
For optimal fruit yield, the plant requires full sun, meaning at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. While it can grow in partial shade, reduced light exposure results in slower development and a diminished harvest. When selecting a site, prioritize well-draining soil, as the plant is susceptible to root issues in waterlogged conditions.
The Waiawi tolerates a wide soil pH range (5.0–8.2), but performs best in a slightly acidic, loamy mixture. When planting nursery stock, amend the native soil with rich organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to provide initial nutrients and improve texture. Dig the planting hole wide enough to accommodate the root ball. Ensure the tree is set at the same depth it was in the container. If planting multiple shrubs, space them approximately four meters apart to allow for full mature spread.
Ongoing Watering, Feeding, and Shaping
Once established, routine maintenance focuses on providing consistent moisture and nutrients. While mature plants display good drought tolerance, regular irrigation is necessary for proper fruit development. During warm or dry seasons, watering may be needed every four to five days, while in cooler periods, every two to three weeks is often sufficient.
The Waiawi is a heavy feeder, benefiting from regular applications of a balanced fertilizer. Young trees require more frequent applications to establish a strong root system. Mature plants should be fertilized three times a year: in early spring, summer (to support fruit development), and fall. Apply fertilizer evenly around the plant’s drip line, avoiding the trunk, and follow immediately with a thorough watering.
Pruning maintains the plant’s structure, controls size, and enhances air circulation and sunlight penetration. The best time to prune is during the dormant period, typically from late fall after harvest through late winter. Gardeners can shape the plant into a dense, multi-stemmed shrub or a small, single-trunk tree by selecting a main leader and removing lower branches. The plant naturally produces suckers from the base; removing this growth diverts energy into fruit production and maintains the desired form. Monitor for common pests like scale insects and whiteflies, which may require mitigation.
Harvesting Fruit and Propagation Methods
The fruit takes approximately 90 to 150 days to mature fully after the flowers appear in the spring. Peak harvest typically occurs in late summer and fall, though in very warm climates, fruit may be produced year-round. The best flavor is achieved when the fruit is allowed to ripen completely on the branch.
Ripe fruit exhibits a deep red or purple color, feels slightly soft when squeezed, and detaches easily from the stem. Once picked, the fruit can be enjoyed fresh or utilized in culinary preparations, including jams, jellies, and juices. The fruit contains numerous small, hard seeds that are usually swallowed whole or removed during processing.
Propagation is achieved through two primary methods: seed and vegetative techniques. Growing Waiawi from seed involves pre-soaking the seeds for up to 48 hours and planting them in a warm medium (24–29°C) for best germination. While seed propagation is straightforward, resulting plants may take several years to fruit and will not always be genetically identical to the parent.
For plants with exact parental characteristics, vegetative methods like semi-ripe stem cuttings or air layering are recommended. Cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone and placed in a well-draining, moist medium in a warm, humid environment to encourage root formation. Air layering is a reliable method for producing a clone that begins fruiting sooner than a seedling.