How to identify Feijoa (Acca sellowiana)

How to identify Feijoa (Acca sellowiana)

Feijoa, also known as Guavasteen, Fig guava

Feijoa showcases evergreen foliage and oval-shaped leaves that reach lengths of about 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 cm). This shrub blooms striking flowers with fleshy white petals and a prominent cluster of long, bright red stamens. It typically grows to a height and width of around 10 to 15 feet (3 to 4.5 meters). The plant bears edible fruits that are oblong, about 1 to 3 inches (2.5 to 7.5 cm) in length, with a green to bluish-green skin and juicy, aromatic pulp.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Shrub

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Feijoa

Oval-shaped leaves, 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) long, with silvery underside pubescence.

Fleshy white flowers with long, bright red stamens and edible, oblong fruits.

Evergreen shrub growing 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters) tall and wide.

Edible green to bluish-green fruits, 1-3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm) long.

Velvety magenta petals, cherry-red stamens, and snowy white sepals in bloom.

Detailed Traits of Feijoa

Leaf Features

Feijoa has thick, leathery, evergreen leaves that attract attention year-round. They are ovate to elliptical in shape, measuring 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) long and 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide. The upper surface is green, while the underside features whitish pubescence, giving it a silvery appearance. The leaves are short-petioled, and this contrast in color and texture between the top and bottom surfaces is a distinguishing feature helpful in identification.

Leaf Arrangement

Opposite

Leaf Apex

Obtuse

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

Feijoa flowers are a stunning display of botanical beauty. They bloom from May to June, featuring 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide clusters of blooms that can expand up to 2 inches (5 cm) wide. The blossoms consist of velvety magenta petals encircling a prominent tuft of cherry-red stamens, each dusted with bright yellow pollen. These vibrant hues are accentuated by a backdrop of snowy white sepals that arch back gracefully. The sepals, petal-like bracts, are also edible, making these flowers a delightful surprise among the plant's foliage.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of feijoa is typically 1-3 inches (2.5-7.6 cm) in length, presenting a distinctive waxy blue-gray-green skin. The green pulp inside is edible and possesses a sweet, aromatic flavor that combines notes reminiscent of mint and apple or pineapple. As the green fruit matures, it transforms into a yellow berry measuring 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long. This berry offers a pineapple-like taste and is best enjoyed when tree-ripened, which enhances its flavor profile. Ripe fruit emits a perfumy fragrance, signaling readiness for harvest.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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