Cas Guava, Costa Rican Guava (Psidium friedrichsthalianum)
Regular price $29.95Tangy Tropical Delight from Costa Rica
Cas Guava (Psidium friedrichsthalianum), also known as Costa Rican Guava, is a small tropical fruit tree prized for its intensely tangy, citrusy fruit. The small, round fruits ripen greenish-yellow with aromatic white to pale yellow flesh packed with tiny seeds. Their bold sour flavor makes them especially exciting for drinks, jams, sauces, and other tropical preparations.
Native to Central America, particularly Costa Rica, Cas Guava is a hardy, productive tree with dense, glossy green foliage and an attractive bushy growth habit. The leaves are aromatic when crushed, releasing the familiar fragrance of guava. Compact enough for home gardens while capable of heavy fruit production, this unusual guava is a standout for tropical fruit collectors.
Cultural & Culinary Significance
Cas Guava has a particularly strong connection to Costa Rican cuisine, where the fruit is used to make cas fresco, a refreshing drink made by blending the tart fruit with water and sugar. Its intensely sour flavor also lends itself beautifully to jams, jellies, sauces, juices, and smoothies. In traditional Central American medicine, guava species have also been used for digestive complaints, while the fruit provides vitamin C and antioxidant compounds.
Why Grow Cas Guava?
- Intensely Tangy Fruit: Get a bold sour, citrusy flavor unlike common sweet guavas.
- Costa Rican Favorite: Grow the fruit used to make the beloved cas fresco.
- Heavy Producer: Mature trees can produce abundant crops of small, aromatic fruit.
- Compact Tropical Tree: Its bushy growth habit fits beautifully into home gardens and edible landscapes.
- Tough & Adaptable: Once established, Cas Guava can tolerate periods of drought and a range of growing conditions.
Growing Tips
(Also known as: Cas Guava, Costa Rican Guava, Sour Guava, Cas, Psidium friedrichsthalianum*)*
Cas Guava grows best in full sun and well-draining, fertile soil. Keep young trees consistently watered, then reduce watering once established as they develop good drought tolerance. Feed regularly during the growing season to support vigorous growth and fruit production. Prune lightly to maintain a compact shape and encourage branching. It can be grown in containers while young, but performs best in the ground where roots have room to develop. Protect from frost and extended cold. Under warm conditions, plants can begin producing fruit in approximately 2–3 years.
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.
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