Cas Guava, Costa Rican Guava (Psidium friedrichsthalianum)
Tangy Tropical Delight from Costa Rica
Common Names: Cas Guava, Costa Rican Guava, Sour Guava, Cas
Family: Myrtaceae
Origin: Central America, particularly Costa Rica
Cas Guava (Psidium friedrichsthalianum), also known as Costa Rican Guava, is a small tropical fruit tree known for its unique and intensely tangy fruit. Native to Central America, particularly Costa Rica, Cas Guava is a popular fruit in tropical regions, often used to make refreshing beverages, juices, and jams due to its sour, citrusy flavor. This small, hardy tree is highly valued for its ability to grow in diverse conditions and its heavy fruit production. The fruits are smaller than common guavas and are highly aromatic, making them a standout in both home gardens and orchards.
Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value
Fruits: Cas Guava produces small, round, greenish-yellow fruits with a strong, tangy flavor. The flesh is typically white or light yellow and filled with numerous small seeds. The fruits are rich in vitamin C and have a sour, citrusy flavor that makes them ideal for beverages, smoothies, jams, and sauces.
Foliage: The tree has glossy, dark green leaves that are aromatic when crushed, giving off a pleasant guava scent. The dense foliage makes it an attractive addition to tropical gardens.
Growth Habit: Cas Guava is a small, bushy tree that can grow up to 10-15 feet tall. It is drought-tolerant once established and can produce fruit prolifically, often within 2-3 years of planting.
Culinary and Medicinal Uses
Cas Guava is most commonly used to make refreshing drinks known as “Cas fresco” in Costa Rica, where the fruit is blended with water and sugar to create a tart, tangy juice. The fruit is also used to make jams, jellies, and sauces. Due to its sour taste, it is rarely eaten fresh on its own.
Medicinally, Cas Guava is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting immune health and protecting against oxidative stress. In traditional medicine, it is used to treat digestive issues, such as diarrhea and upset stomachs.
Quick Care Guide
| Plant Type: |
Subtropical to Tropical Fruiting Shrub/Tree |
|
Harvest Season: |
Spring, Summer |
| Mature Size: | Up to 12 ft. tall |
| Soil & Moisture: | Avoid planting guavas in low spots where cool air settles, as they don't like cold. |
| Light Requirements: | Full Sun, Part Shade |
| Self-Fertile: | Yes |
| Growth Rate: | Very Fast, Fast |
| Zone Hardiness: | Outdoors 9-11 with frost protection; Patio/Greenhouse 4+ |
| Propagation: | Our Guava Plants are grown from seed and are capable of fruiting within 3 years. |
Plant Care Guide for Growing Guava Trees
Guava trees (Psidium guajava) are tropical fruit-bearing plants known for their delicious, fragrant fruits. Proper care is essential to ensure healthy growth, optimal fruit production, and disease resistance. Whether you're growing guava trees in your backyard or as potted plants, follow these guidelines to cultivate thriving guava trees.
1. Location and Climate: Guava trees thrive in warm, tropical to subtropical climates. They require plenty of sunlight for optimal growth and fruit production. Choose a planting location with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. While guava trees are adaptable, they prefer well-draining soil.
2. Soil Preparation: Plant guava trees in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.0-7.0). You can amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve fertility and drainage.
3. Planting: Plant guava trees during the warmer months, preferably in spring. Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball. Place the tree in the hole at the same depth it was in the nursery container. Backfill the hole with soil and water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
4. Watering: Young guava trees require consistent moisture to establish their root systems. Water deeply and regularly, especially during the first year. Once the tree is established, reduce the frequency of watering but provide deep soakings when the top few inches of soil feel dry.
5. Fertilization: Feed guava trees with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring, early summer, and late summer. Choose a fertilizer with a ratio like 10-10-10 or 14-14-14, which provides a balanced mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.
6. Pruning: Pruning helps maintain a healthy shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and encourage air circulation. Prune guava trees during the dormant season, typically in winter. Remove any suckers that emerge from the base of the tree. Regularly thin out the canopy to allow sunlight to reach all parts of the tree.
7. Pest and Disease Management: Guava trees can be susceptible to pests such as fruit flies, aphids, and scale insects. Regularly inspect your trees for signs of infestation and treat promptly if necessary, using horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps. To prevent disease, avoid over-watering and waterlogging the soil.
8. Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent moisture-related issues.
9. Fruit Thinning: If your guava tree produces an excessive number of fruits, consider thinning them out. This promotes larger and healthier fruits and prevents the tree from being overburdened.
10. Harvesting: Guava fruits are ready to be harvested when they change color and give off a sweet aroma. Gently twist or cut the fruits from the tree. Avoid pulling, as this can damage the branches.
By following these guidelines, you can successfully cultivate guava trees that produce flavorful, tropical fruits for you to enjoy. Remember that specific care requirements may vary based on the guava tree variety and your local climate, so always observe your tree's behavior and adjust your care routine accordingly.
