About

Feijoa sellowiana is an evergreen shrub characterized by its grey-green foliage, which is densely covered with white felt on the underside. In the summer months, it produces flowers featuring four red petals, with a white exterior, emerging in the leaf axils. This plant may also yield edible fruit that is green with a red blush.

About the genus

This flowering plant is grown both as an ornamental tree and for its fruit, which is edible. It features shiny green foliage and distinctive blooms characterized by thick white petals and red stamens, both of which are also consumable. The fruit has a flavor profile reminiscent of strawberry, guava, and pineapple, while the flowers offer a sweet taste akin to marshmallows.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
West-facing, South-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H3

Plant details

Plant type
Shrubs
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
1.5-2.5 metres
Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height
10-20 years
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Mediterranean climate plants
Native to
Brazil, Argentina

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in light, well-drained soil in full sun in a sheltered site
Pruning
No pruning necessary but pruning group 8 to remove any winter damaged growth in late spring
Propagation
Propagate by seed at 13-16°C (55-61°F) as soon as ripe. Propagate by Semi-ripe cuttings in summer
Pest resistance
Usually pest-free
Disease resistance
Usually disease free