Chilean guava 'Flambeau' Ugni molinae 'Flambeau' (v)

Water

The Chilean Guava 'Flambeau' should be watered regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during the growing season. A good approach is to check the top inch of soil and water deeply when it feels dry to the touch, which may be once or twice a week depending on weather conditions. Generally, providing about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per week will suffice to keep the plant hydrated, but always adjust according to the plant's response and the local climate. During winter, reduce watering to prevent waterlogging as growth slows down.

Light

The Chilean Guava 'Flambeau' thrives best in full sun to partial shade conditions. It should be placed in a spot where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, ideally in a location that provides morning sun and some afternoon shade in hotter climates, as intense afternoon sun can be harsh on the plant's foliage.

Temperature

The Chilean Guava 'Flambeau' prefers a moderate climate and can tolerate a temperature range from about 20°F to 90°F. However, the ideal growing temperature range is between 60°F and 75°F. While the plant can survive light frosts, it's important to protect it from prolonged periods of freezing temperatures below 20°F to prevent damage.

Pruning

Pruning the Chilean Guava 'Flambeau' is important to maintain its desired shape, encourage new growth, and promote better fruit production. Light pruning can be done any time of the year to remove dead or damaged branches. More extensive pruning should be carried out in late winter or early spring before new growth begins to shape the plant and thin out overcrowded branches.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Chilean Guava 'Flambeau' prefers a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter with added peat and perlite or sand to enhance drainage. The ideal pH range for this soil mix should be slightly acidic to neutral, around pH 5.0 to 7.0, to ensure healthy growth.

Repotting

Chilean Guava 'Flambeau' should be repotted every 2 to 3 years, or when the root system outgrows the current pot. Spring is the best time to repot, which will give the plant a chance to establish its roots before the growing season.

Humidity & Misting

Chilean Guava 'Flambeau' grows best in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 50% and 70%. It appreciates a humid environment but can tolerate lower humidity levels if necessary.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright indirect light and keep evenly moist.

• Outdoor

  Plant in sunny to partial shade, shelter from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  8-11 USDA

Life cycle

Ugni molinae 'Flambeau', commonly known as Chilean Guava or Strawberry Myrtle, begins its life as a seed, which under suitable conditions germinates to produce a small seedling. The seedling grows into a bushy, evergreen shrub, typically variegated with cream and green leaves that can become pink-flushed in winter. As the shrub matures, it blossoms with small, bell-shaped, fragrant pink or white flowers in spring and summer. Following flowering, the Chilean Guava develops small, edible berries resembling blueberries or tiny guavas, typically ripening to a red or purple color in the fall. The plant reaches fruiting maturity after several years and can then produce berries for many years if properly cared for. In its final stage, the shrub may decline due to old age or environmental stresses, completing its life cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method for propagating the Chilean guava 'Flambeau' (Variegated), scientifically known as Ugni molinae 'Flambeau' (v), is through semi-ripe cuttings taken in summer. To propagate, select a healthy, semi-ripe shoot and cut a section about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) in length just below a leaf node. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. Then, insert the cutting into a pot filled with a mix of peat and perlite or a well-draining potting soil. Cover the pot with a plastic bag or place it in a propagator to maintain humidity, and keep it in indirect light. In a few weeks, the cutting should root, and you can then transplant it into a larger pot to continue growing.