Pineapple Guava

Scientific Name: Acca sellowiana

Common Names: Pineapple Guava, Feijoa

Native to: South America (Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and northern Argentina)

Lighting Requirements: Full sun to partial shade

Height: 10–15 feet (can be pruned to maintain smaller sizes)

Width: 10–15 feet

Winter Look: Evergreen with gray-green, oval-shaped leaves that have silvery undersides

Seasonal Interest: Ornamental white flowers with pink centers and red stamens in spring to early summer; edible green fruit in fall with a sweet, pineapple-like flavor (they only fruit if they're happy in their location)

Drought Tolerance: High once established

Soil Requirements: Well-drained soil; tolerates sandy, loamy, or slightly clay soils: somewhat tolerant of alkaline soils

pH Range: 5.5–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 8–11 (minimum temperature is 10 degrees)

Deer Resistance: Moderate

Attracts: Pollinators (flowers) and birds (edible fruit)

Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans and pets; flowers and fruit are edible

Potential Issues: Generally pest and disease-resistant; occasional root rot in poorly drained soils or fruit drop in extreme heat

Notes: Pineapple Guava is valued for its dual-purpose ornamental and edible qualities. It is easy to grow, low-maintenance, and can be shaped into hedges, screens, or left as a small tree.