Is Chilean guava the same as strawberry guava?

Answered by Michael Wilson

Chilean guava and strawberry guava are often used interchangeably to refer to the same fruit, but there is some confusion surrounding their exact identities. In order to understand whether they are the same or different, it is important to delve into the botanical details and explore the various names and classifications associated with these fruits.

Psidium littorale, commonly known as the Chilean guava or strawberry guava, is a fruit-bearing shrub native to South America. It belongs to the Myrtaceae family, which includes other popular fruits like guava and feijoa. The plant itself is evergreen and can grow to be quite large, reaching heights of up to 10 feet.

The fruit produced by Psidium littorale is typically round and about the size of a large marble or gobstopper. It comes in various colors, including red and yellow, and has a slightly sweet and tangy flavor. The pulp of the fruit is dotted with relatively large pips, adding a crunchy texture to the overall eating experience.

While the name “Chilean guava” suggests a connection to Chile, the origins of Psidium littorale are actually disputed. Some believe it is native to Brazil, while others argue that it originated in Uruguay or Argentina. This geographical confusion has led to different names being used to refer to the fruit, including strawberry guava and cattley guava.

In some regions, particularly in the United States, the term “strawberry guava” is used more commonly to describe Psidium littorale. This name likely stems from the fruit’s resemblance to strawberries in terms of both appearance and taste. The use of “strawberry guava” as a name has gained traction due to its more descriptive nature, avoiding any potential confusion with the more common guava fruit.

It is worth noting that there are other species of guava, such as Psidium guajava, which is the familiar tropical fruit commonly referred to as guava. These different guava species have distinct characteristics and flavors. However, when it comes to Psidium littorale, whether you call it Chilean guava or strawberry guava, it generally refers to the same fruit.

The terms Chilean guava and strawberry guava are often used interchangeably to refer to the fruit produced by the shrub Psidium littorale. Despite the various names associated with this fruit, it is generally recognized as the same fruit with slightly different regional preferences for naming. So, whether you prefer to call it Chilean guava or strawberry guava, you can enjoy its unique flavor and crunchy texture.