Guayabillo Fruit Plant (Psidium sartorianum)

Guayabillo (Psidium sartorianum): The Wild Tropical Jewel with Sweet & Spicy Flavor

Introduction: A Rare & Exquisite Wild Guava

Guayabillo (Psidium sartorianum), also known as Little Guava, Pichi’ Che, Niedenzu, and Guayaba, is an evergreen fruit tree native to Mexico, Puerto Rico, and other parts of the Americas. This lesser-known guava species is highly valued for its edible fruits, which are gathered in the wild and also cultivated in home gardens.

Reaching 6-15 meters in height, Guayabillo produces small, pale yellow fruits (10-15 mm in diameter) with a sweet, slightly spicy taste, making it a unique addition to the guava family. These fruits can be eaten fresh, cooked, or processed into jellies and beverages, offering both nutritional and medicinal benefits.

A resilient tree thriving in tropical climates, Guayabillo is not only a delightful fruiting plant but also contributes ecologically by providing food and habitat for wildlife.

Local & Common Names Around the World

Guayabillo is known by different names across various cultures:

• English: Little Guava, Wild Guava
• Spanish: Guayabillo, Guayaba
• Portuguese: Goiabinha
• French: Petite Goyave
• Hindi: छोटा अमरूद (Chhota Amrood)
• Tamil: சிறிய கொய்யா (Siriya Koyya)
• Malayalam: ചെറിയ പേരയ്ക്ക (Cheriya Peraykka)
• Bengali: ছোট পেয়ারা (Chhoto Peyara)
• Filipino: Maliit na Bayabas
• Indonesian: Jambu Kecil
• Mexican Indigenous Languages: Pichi’ Che

Nutritional Value & Health Benefits

Guayabillo is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious superfruit.

Nutritional Content (Per 100g of Fruit)

• Calories: 65 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Protein: 2.5g
• Fat: 0.8g
• Fiber: 5.2g
• Vitamin C: 220mg (3-4x more than oranges)
• Vitamin A: 590 IU
• Vitamin B6: 0.11mg
• Potassium: 400mg
• Magnesium: 21mg
• Iron: 0.25mg

Health Benefits of Guayabillo

1. Boosts Immunity: Rich in vitamin C, helping fight infections and improve overall immunity.
2. Regulates Blood Sugar: A low glycemic index fruit, helpful for diabetes management.
3. Supports Heart Health: High in potassium and antioxidants, which regulate blood pressure and reduce cholesterol.
4. Eases Menstrual Cramps: Guava leaf extract is traditionally used to reduce menstrual pain.
5. Promotes Digestive Health: Fiber-rich, aiding in healthy bowel movements and gut health.
6. Aids Weight Loss: Low in calories, yet filling, helping with appetite control.
7. Contains Anticancer Properties: Guava extracts have shown potential in fighting cancer cells.
8. Improves Skin Health: Loaded with antioxidants and vitamins, protecting the skin from aging and damage.

Taste Profile & Culinary Uses

How Does Guayabillo Taste?

Guayabillo has a sweet yet slightly spicy flavor, with hints of floral and tropical citrus notes. The soft, juicy flesh and mild tartness give it a refreshing taste, making it enjoyable both fresh and cooked.

How to Enjoy Guayabillo in Your Diet

1. Eat Fresh: Enjoy its sweet and spicy taste straight from the tree.
2. Juices & Smoothies: Adds a tropical twist to fruit blends.
3. Jams & Jellies: A popular ingredient in homemade preserves.
4. Desserts & Sweets: Used in cakes, sorbets, and fruit-based desserts.
5. Beverages & Cocktails: Infuses a refreshing flavor into tropical drinks.
6. Sauces & Marinades: Enhances savory dishes with its fruity depth.
7. Fermented Products: Used in local wines and guava-based liqueurs.

Growing & Maintaining the Guayabillo Plant

Ideal Growing Conditions

• Sunlight: Thrives in full sun or dappled shade.
• Soil: Prefers well-draining, rich, loamy soil.
• Watering: Moderate watering; avoid waterlogging.
• Temperature: Best suited for warm, tropical climates.

Maintenance & Care

• Fertilization: Apply organic compost every 3-4 months.
• Pruning: Regular pruning enhances fruit production and airflow.
• Mulching: Helps retain moisture and improve soil quality.
• Pest Protection: Monitor for fruit flies and caterpillars.
• Harvesting: Fruits ripen within 2-3 years, turning pale yellow when ready.

How to Preserve Guayabillo

1. Refrigeration: Store fresh fruits in the fridge for up to one week.
2. Freezing: Slice and freeze guava pieces for smoothies and cooking.
3. Canning & Jams: Extend shelf life by making guava jam or jelly.
4. Drying: Dehydrate slices for long-lasting guava chips.

Cultural & Traditional Significance

Traditional Uses in Different Cultures

• Mexico & Central America: Guayabillo is commonly used in medicinal teas and fruit preserves.
• Puerto Rico & Caribbean Islands: Integrated into local beverages and desserts.
• South America: The leaves are brewed into digestive herbal teas.
• Africa & Southeast Asia: Used in Ayurvedic and traditional medicine.

Symbolism & Folklore

• Guayabillo is believed to symbolize good health and well-being in many cultures.
• Some traditions suggest placing guava leaves under the pillow to attract positive energy.
• Guava trees are often planted as a sign of prosperity and abundance.

Why You Should Grow Guayabillo

✔ Rare & Exotic Flavor – A sweet yet spicy taste, perfect for fresh eating and cooking.
✔ Nutrient-Dense Superfruit – Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
✔ Easy to Grow & Maintain – A hardy tree that thrives in warm climates.
✔ Supports Biodiversity – Provides food for birds, bees, and wildlife.
✔ Low-Calorie & Weight-Friendly – Helps in healthy weight management.

Final Thoughts: A Unique & Nutritious Wild Guava

Guayabillo is more than just a fruit—it’s a symbol of nature’s richness, a powerhouse of nutrients, and a delightful addition to any diet. Whether you enjoy it fresh, in a smoothie, or as a homemade jam, this tropical treasure is worth experiencing.