Chilean Guava

Myrtus ugni molinae

The attractive and hard-to-find Chilean Guava, aka Strawberry Myrtle, bears red, 1 cm (or just under 1/2 inch) oval fruit with an absolutely delicious sweet/tart flavor and aroma,  reminiscent of tropical strawberries. This rare beauty has much to recommend it – small, shiny evergreen leaves of deep green hue, darling little dangling white bell-shaped blossoms in late spring, and the tasty red fruits that garland the bush in fall. Leaves can be a tea substitute. Native to Chile and Argentina, where it is known as Ugni by the indigenous Mapuche peoples, and became a favorite of Queen Victoria when introduced into Great Britain in 1844. Also grown in a limited way in New Zealand, where it is commonly known as New Zealand cranberry.

Strawberry Myrtle loves warm climates and is reliably drought-tolerant once established. Trim the bush to a size you like (since it tends to be rather rangy) and consider planting several to make an unusual hedge. Usually begins fruiting in year 2-3 with an average of 2 pounds of fruit, and another 2 pounds per year of growth ongoing. Plant in well-drained, compost-rich soil in a sunny location or grow as a potted house or greenhouse plant. 

Cold Hardy to USDA Zone: 8

Mature Height: 6′-9′ 

Sun: Full Sun

Ripening Time: August

Pollination: Self Fertile

Read our Subtropicals Growing Guide