Guava 'Ruby Supreme' (Psidium guajava)
Fragrant, Sweet-Tart Tropical Guava with Lush Pink Flesh
Ruby Supreme Guava is a highly productive tropical fruit tree that delivers medium to large round fruit with a thin, yellow-green skin and a vibrant pink-red interior. The flavor is sweet-tart, aromatic, and refreshingly tropical—perfect for eating fresh, blending into smoothies, or making jams, jellies, and pastries. Known for its heavy yields and strong fragrance, Ruby Supreme is one of the most popular pink-fleshed guava cultivars for home gardens. This fast-growing evergreen thrives in warm climates, making it a standout in edible landscapes, food forests, and container gardens.
Why Grow Ruby Supreme Guava?
- Produces large, pink-fleshed guavas with an intense tropical aroma
- Sweet-tart flavor ideal for fresh eating, juicing, or preserves
- Heavy producer once established
- Beautiful evergreen foliage with ornamental value
- Easy to grow and quick to bear fruit in warm climates
Growing Tips
Plant Ruby Supreme Guava in full sun with well-drained soil. Water regularly during the first year to establish strong roots, then moderately once mature. Fertilize during the growing season for best yields. Guavas are adaptable and drought-tolerant once established but produce more fruit with consistent watering. In USDA Zones 9–11, it grows well in-ground; in cooler zones, plant in a large container and bring indoors during cold weather. Prune after harvest to control size and encourage airflow.
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.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Psidium guajava ‘Ruby Supreme’ |
| Common Names | Ruby Supreme Guava, Pink Guava |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Origin | Tropical Americas (cultivar selection) |
| Plant Type | Evergreen tropical fruit tree |
| Life Cycle | Perennial |
| Mature Size | 10–15 ft tall x 8–12 ft wide |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water Needs | Moderate; more during flowering & fruiting |
| Soil | Well-drained, sandy or loamy |
| Bloom Time | Spring–Summer |
| Flower Color | White |
| USDA Zones | 9–11 (container in cooler zones) |
| Florida Native | No |
| Propagation | Seeds, cuttings, air layering |
| Seasonal Traits | Evergreen |
| Time to Harvest | 0–1 years from planting; fruits late summer–fall |
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