Feijoa Sellowiana (O.Berg) O.Berg - An Overview
Feijoa Sellowiana (O.Berg) O.Berg, commonly known as Pineapple Guava, is an evergreen shrub or small tree that is native to South America. The plant belongs to the Myrtaceae family, which includes many important species such as Eucalyptus, Myrtle, and Clove. Feijoa Sellowiana is highly valued for its ornamental beauty, sweet and fragrant fruit, and medicinal properties.
General Appearance
The plant typically grows to a height of 3–7 meters, with a spread of 3–5 meters. It has a compact and bushy growth habit, with dense foliage and a pyramid-shaped crown. The young branches are grayish-brown, while the older branches are reddish-brown and peeling. The leaves are evergreen, simple, and leathery, with a glossy finish. They are elliptical to oblong in shape, about 3–10 cm long, with a wavy margin, and a greenish-grey underside.
The flowers of Feijoa Sellowiana are showy and colorful, with petals that are typically pink, white or red. They are large, about 2.5–4 cm wide, and have many stamens. The flowers appear in spring and are pollinated by bees, birds, and other insects. The fruit is an egg-shaped or spherical fleshy berry, about 3–6 cm in diameter, with a gray-green to yellow-green skin. The flesh is juicy, white, and sweet, with a texture that is similar to that of a pear or a guava. The seeds are small and numerous, embedded in the flesh.
Common Names and Origin
Feijoa Sellowiana is also known by several other common names such as Pineapple Guava, Brazilian Guava, Guavasteen, and Acca. The plant is native to South America, particularly in the highlands of southern Brazil, Uruguay, and northern Argentina. It was first introduced to Europe in the 19th century and has since been widely grown in many parts of the world, including Africa, Australasia, and North America.
Uses
Feijoa Sellowiana has a wide range of uses, such as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks, as a fruit tree for food and beverages, and as a medicinal plant in traditional medicine. The fruit is commonly eaten fresh, cooked, or used in jams, jellies, drinks, and desserts. It is rich in vitamin C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants, and has a unique flavor that is often described as a blend of pineapple, guava, and mint. The leaves, flowers, and bark of Feijoa Sellowiana are also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as diarrhea, fever, infections, and respiratory problems.
In conclusion, Feijoa Sellowiana is a versatile plant that is admired for its beauty, flavor, and health benefits. It is easy to grow and maintain, and can be a valuable addition to any garden or landscape.
Light Requirements
Feijoa sellowiana grows best in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but the plant may not produce as much fruit if grown in heavy shade. For optimal growth and fruit production, it should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Temperature Requirements
Feijoa sellowiana is a subtropical plant and requires warm temperatures to thrive. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 15°F (-9°C) but may experience damage if exposed to prolonged freezing temperatures. The ideal temperature range for growth is 60°F to 90°F (16°C to 32°C).
Soil Requirements
Feijoa sellowiana prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils, but it does not tolerate wet or poorly-drained soil. Adding organic matter to the soil can improve its fertility and drainage.
Guidance on Cultivation Methods for Feijoa Sellowiana
Feijoa sellowiana, also known as pineapple guava or guavasteen, is a fruit-bearing shrub or small tree native to South America. When cultivating this plant, it is important to consider the appropriate soil, planting, and lighting conditions.
Feijoa sellowiana grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients and organic matter. It prefers a slightly acidic soil pH of 6.0-6.5. The plant requires at least six hours of full sun each day to thrive.
When planting Feijoa sellowiana, make sure to do so in the spring or early fall. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the root ball and amend the soil with compost and a slow-release fertilizer. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged for the first few weeks after planting.
Watering Needs for Feijoa Sellowiana
Feijoa sellowiana requires regular watering to stay healthy and produce quality fruit. It is particularly sensitive to dry conditions, so growers must ensure that the plant receives adequate moisture.
When irrigating Feijoa sellowiana, it is best to do so deeply and infrequently. Water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions, until the soil is moist to a depth of six inches. Be careful not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.
In hot and dry climates, it may be necessary to water Feijoa sellowiana more frequently to prevent drought stress. However, excess moisture can lead to suboptimal fruiting or fungal infections.
Fertilization for Feijoa Sellowiana
Feijoa sellowiana requires regular fertilization to produce healthy growth and fruit. It is important to provide the plant with a balanced mixture of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium that is appropriate for its growth stage.
For young plants, apply a balanced fertilizer high in nitrogen every other week during the growing season. For mature plants, apply nitrogen-rich fertilizer in the spring and fall, and phosphorus-rich fertilizer in the winter. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates and methods.
Feijoa sellowiana is sensitive to excess fertilizer, so make sure not to over-do it. Too much nitrogen can cause the plant to produce too much foliage at the expense of fruit.
Pruning Feijoa Sellowiana
Pruning Feijoa sellowiana is important for maintaining its shape, promoting growth, and maximizing fruit production. Regular pruning helps to remove dead or damaged branches, thin out overcrowded areas, and stimulate new growth.
Prune Feijoa sellowiana in the late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. Use a pair of sharp shears to remove any damaged, diseased, or crossing branches. Also, thin out the center of the plant to promote better air circulation and sunlight penetration. Leave about three to four leaves per branch to enable photosynthesis.
It is important to note that Feijoa sellowiana does not require heavy pruning. However, if you want to control the size and shape of your plant, you can prune it to the desired form in the early years of growth. Alternatively, prune the plant regularly every year to maintain its shape and size.
Propagation of Feijoa sellowiana (O.Berg) O.Berg
Feijoa sellowiana, also known as pineapple guava, is a popular fruit-bearing plant that can be propagated by various methods. The most common propagation methods for Feijoa sellowiana include:
Seed propagation
Propagation of Feijoa sellowiana by seeds is a viable option, but it may take longer to germinate compared to other methods. The seeds can be collected from the fruits and planted in well-draining soil mixed with organic matter. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep it moist until germination, which may take up to 8 weeks. Seedlings may take 2-3 years to reach maturity and start bearing fruits.
Cuttings propagation
Propagation of Feijoa sellowiana by cuttings is a faster method compared to seeds. Softwood cuttings, which are taken from the current year's growth, are preferred for propagation. Take 4-6 inch cuttings from the terminal ends and remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil mixed with organic matter. Cover the pot with a plastic bag or a glass jar to retain moisture and provide bottom heat for faster rooting. Once the cuttings have rooted, usually within 2-3 weeks, remove the covering and place them under bright, indirect light.
Layering propagation
Propagation of Feijoa sellowiana by layering is another easy method. Select a low hanging branch and remove a section of bark from the middle of the branch. Cover the wounded area with moist soil and secure it in place with a U-shaped wire or a pebble. The branch will develop roots at the buried section, and once the roots have developed, cut the branch from the mother plant and pot it in well-draining soil. Provide enough water and place it in a shady area until it establishes itself.
Disease and Pest Management for Feijoa sellowiana (O.Berg) O.Berg
Feijoa sellowiana is a fruit tree native to South America. Although generally hardy and resistant to pests and diseases, it is still susceptible to certain conditions that can cause damage and reduce its productivity. As an assistant gardener, it's essential to recognize the symptoms of the most common diseases and pests and take appropriate measures to manage them.
Common Diseases
Feijoa sellowiana rarely suffers from serious diseases, but some fungal infections can affect leaves and fruits. Gray leaf spot, caused by the fungus Cercospora fungi, appears as small spots on the leaves that grow over time and turn gray or brown. The disease can cause defoliation and weaken the tree's vigour. Fruit rot, caused by the fungus Phomopsis fungi, manifests as a soft and watery spot on the fruit, generally at the stem's end. The rotting spreads quickly and can affect other fruit nearby.
Disease Management
Managing diseases involves a combination of cultural and chemical procedures. To reduce the prevalence of fungal infections, keep the area around the tree free of debris and regular pruning of dead and damaged branches, allowing for good air circulation. Fungicides containing copper-based compounds sprayed according to package directions can help control some fungal infections, but care must be taken to avoid overdosing that might damage the plant.
Common Pests
Feijoa sellowiana infrequent insect pests, but some of these can cause significant damage. The most common is the fruit fly, which lays its eggs in ripe fruit, resulting in maggots that feed on the fruit flesh. Other pests include the green vegetable bug, which sucks sap from young shoots, and spider mites, tiny arachnids that feed on leaves and cause yellowing and webbing.
Pest Management
Integrated pest management is the most effective way to control insects and other pests. Prevention is essential, and this involves keeping the growing environment clean and free of weeds and debris. Physical barriers, such as netting, can discourage fruit flies from laying their eggs in the fruit. Other products containing pyrethrin, neem oil, or soap can control most of the insect pests and reduce the risk of infestation. Regular scouting and observation of the plant can help detect problems early before they become severe.
