Description

Guava (Psidium guajava)

Guava is an evergreen shrub which is easily pollinated by insects, including bees.  This plant is grown throughout Barbados under various conditions including shade and drought.  The fruit has a sweet, succulent flavour and is eaten raw, both unripe and ripe.  It is also stewed and used in shortcakes and pies.  Guava can be made into jams, jellies and juices.  

Medicinally, it is used in the treatment of inflammation, diabetes, hypertension, wounds, pain relief, fever, diarrhoea, rheumatism, lung diseases and ulcers.

Fun Fact: In Hawaii, the wood is used for the smoking of meat.  It is resistant to insect and fungal attack.