Psidium guajava
Psidium guajava
Psidium guajava (pronunciation: /ˈsɪdiəm ɡwɑːˈʒɑːvə/), commonly known as the guava, is a tropical fruit cultivated in many tropical and subtropical regions. It is a small tree in the myrtle family, Myrtaceae, native to Mexico, Central America, and northern South America.
Etymology
The term "Psidium" is derived from the Greek word "psidion", meaning "small fruit", while "guajava" is derived from "guayaba", the Spanish word for the fruit.
Description
Psidium guajava is a small tree that reaches a height of about 33 feet. The leaves are opposite, simple, elliptic to ovate, 2.8–6.3 in long. The flowers are white, with five petals and numerous stamens. The fruit is a berry, which can be round or pear-shaped, with a thin skin that is green and turns yellow as it matures. The flesh of the fruit is sweet and pink or white in color.
Cultivation and uses
Guava is cultivated for its edible fruit. The fruit is high in vitamins C and A, dietary fiber, and the dietary mineral, potassium. It is often used in jams, jellies, and juices. The leaves of the guava tree are also used in traditional medicine for treating diarrhea.
Related terms
- Myrtaceae: The myrtle family, to which the guava belongs.
- Tropical fruit: Fruits that are grown in tropical climates, like the guava.
- Traditional medicine: The use of natural remedies, like guava leaves, in treating health conditions.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Psidium guajava
- Wikipedia's article - Psidium guajava
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