Guava

Guava (Psidium) is a genus in the Myrtaceae family. It includes small and large trees that are native to warm and tropical regions of Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. The fruits of some species are also known in English as guava.

In Somali, the term 'saytuun' is used for the fruit of guava, particularly in regions where it is cultivated such as along the Shabeelle and Jubba rivers. The same term is also applied elsewhere to the olive tree, so meaning must be determined by context.

Characteristics of the plant

Psidium trees are typically medium-height with smooth bark that flakes, greenish-brown in color. The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs and are tough, with veins clearly visible on the leaf surface. Flowers are white and have numerous stamens.

The fruit is a berry containing many seeds. When ripe, the flesh beneath the peel ranges from white to pink to brown in color. Small hard seeds are usually scattered throughout the interior of the fruit.

Common species

The most widely cultivated species are Psidium guajava, the common guava, and Psidium cattleyanum, known as the strawberry guava. Psidium guajava has spread extensively to warm regions of Asia, Africa, and the Pacific and is the species sold commercially.

Uses and spread

The fruit is eaten fresh and used to make juice, jam, and preserves. In some places, the leaves are used for traditional tea. Because the plant spreads rapidly and birds disperse the seeds, some island populations consider Psidium cattleyanum an invasive species threatening native vegetation.