Chilean guava (Ugni molinae)
Also known as strawberry myrtle, Chilean guava grows as a bushy, upright, evergreen shrub with small, leathery leaves. The nodding white flowers are fragrant and followed by aromatic, edible, dark red berries about 1cm across. The berries are at their best in late autumn - late October into November - and can be eaten fresh, made into jams, liqueurs and syrups, and even dried for use in herbal teas.
The species, as the common name suggests, is native to Chile (and parts of Argentina too). It was introduced to England in 1844 by the botanist and plant collector William Lobb, and it became a favorite fruit of Queen Victoria.
Growing
Plants prefer a sheltered position with a lot of sun. They are not fussy about soil type and once established require very little maintenance. They will also thrive in large pots.
Propagation
Plants will self-seed and will also produce suckers which can be dug up and replanted.
The species, as the common name suggests, is native to Chile (and parts of Argentina too). It was introduced to England in 1844 by the botanist and plant collector William Lobb, and it became a favorite fruit of Queen Victoria.
Growing
Plants prefer a sheltered position with a lot of sun. They are not fussy about soil type and once established require very little maintenance. They will also thrive in large pots.
Propagation
Plants will self-seed and will also produce suckers which can be dug up and replanted.
