Psidium cattleyanum

Psidium cattleyanum, also known as Cattley guava or Strawberry guava, is a species of small trees in the Myrtaceae family. Native to Brazil, it is now a widespread invasive species in many tropical and subtropical regions.

Description

Psidium cattleyanum is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 6 meters in height. The leaves are opposite, simple, elliptic to ovate, 5–15 cm long, with a pungent smell when crushed. The flowers are white, with numerous stamens and a prominent, boss-like stigma. The fruit is a round to pear-shaped berry that is red or yellow, 2–4 cm in diameter, and has numerous small seeds.

Distribution and habitat

Psidium cattleyanum is native to the east coast of Brazil, from where it spread to other parts of the world. It is now found in many tropical and subtropical regions, including the Caribbean, Hawaii, Florida, and the Pacific Islands. It grows in a variety of habitats, from sea level up to 1,000 meters in elevation.

Uses

The fruit of Psidium cattleyanum is edible and has a sweet, strawberry-like flavor. It is consumed fresh and used in the preparation of jams, jellies, and beverages. The tree is also used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive, glossy foliage and fragrant flowers.

Invasive species

In many regions, Psidium cattleyanum has become an invasive species, outcompeting native plants and altering ecosystems. It is particularly problematic in Hawaii, where it forms dense thickets that prevent the regeneration of native species.

Control

Control of Psidium cattleyanum involves a combination of mechanical removal, chemical treatment, and biological control. In Hawaii, the scale insect Tectococcus ovatus has been introduced as a biological control agent.

See also

• List of invasive species
• Invasive species in Hawaii
• Myrtaceae

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