Feijoa, Pineapple Guava

Acca sellowiana

Physical Characteristics

Acca sellowiana is an evergreen Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft) by 3 m (9ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower in July, and the seeds ripen from October to January. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is not self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

S. America - Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Hedge; South Wall. By. West Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[3, 11, 183]. A delicious aromatic taste, somewhat like a cross between a pineapple and a strawberry[183]. The fruit is best eaten raw but it can also be made into pies, cakes, puddings, jams, jellies etc[183]. Fruits can suffer damage from autumn frosts, though the flavour develops better at low temperatures[200]. The fruit is up to 7.5cm long[200]. Flowers - raw[3, 160, 166]. The petals are sweet, crisp and delicious, they taste more like a fruit than many fruits[K]. They should be harvested just after they begin to soften[183] (not sure that I agree with this last sentence[K])

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known