Chilean guava (Ugni molinae)

Jaimie Sweetman is Head Gardener of the Edible Forest located on the Yarra Valley Estate in Dixons Creek. There are regular tours of the Edible Forest, often led by Jaimie – read more and book your place on a future tour.

Originating from Chile in South America, the chilean guava is small shrub getting to around 1 metre by 1 metre. It is sometimes known as the tazziberry.

It has little pink berries that ripen in Autumn. The berries taste a bit like strawberries and are a true children’s favourite.

The plant makes a great, small hedge that doesn’t require pruning unless to shape.

It doesn’t like a temperature under 10degC so, if you are in a cold area, it is best planted in a full sun but protected area. It can also handle being in pots, which then allows it to be moved under cover in winter.

Ours are located in full sun at the back of the forest where they are protected from dry winds and heavy frosts.

It loves a bit of moisture so compost and mulch well.

You can source seedlings easily in either nurseries or online and we often have them for sale in our nursery.