Chilean Guava

I’ve wanted a Chilean Guava (Ugni molinae) since my trip to the RISC Roof Garden, but it was never the right time (i.e. there was no money in the plant budget).

Now it is – and my two new babies arrived yesterday, from Jekka’s Herb Farm.

I’ve never tasted one, but the berries on the Chilean Guava are supposed to be some of the nicest you will ever taste – and one of Queen Victoria’s favourites. Why this edible hedging plant fell out of favour is a bit of a mystery, but it’s a popular choice with permaculturalists creating a forest garden.

I’ll need some ericaceous compost before I can pot them up, and they’ll need to spend this winter in the Grow Dome. They’re pretty hardy, but don’t like having wet feet – so even once they’ve settled in they might prefer being moved into the Grow Dome over winter. They’ll have to grow in containers (I have alkaline soil), so that won’t be too much of a problem, and apparently they appreciate being pot-bound.

More info on the Chilean Guava:
Top Five Trees for Life Beyond Oil – #2 on Transition Culture.
PFAF

If you’re curious about permaculture then have a look at the online edition of Permaculture Magazine – there’s a free sample issue you can read, and an online subscription only costs £10. If you’d rather sample the paper version then follow the link to find out how to request a free back issue.