Ugni molinae ‘Jim Gerdemann’

Chilean Guava, commonly known as Strawberry Myrtle, Murta, or Murtilla, is a fruit producing shrub native to the Andes of Southern Chile and Argentina. Staying compact, Chilean Guava usually grows no larger than 6 feet in height and width and responds very well to hedging. The fruit is edible and delicious; purported to be Queen Victoria’s favorite fruit after it was introduced to England in the 19th century. In its native land, the fruit is valued fresh, in jams, and in the traditional liqueur Murtado.

Evergreen, lanceolate foliage is a deep green, adorned by white, pendulous flowers in early summer. Flowers are followed by blueberry sized fruit with an intense flavor like strawberry and watermelon with an aromatic quality. This is a must have plant for the sheltered garden, consistent moisture is appreciated.

‘Jim Gerdemann’ is a selection of Chilean Guava identified by nurseryman Ian Barclay growing in the garden of the late horticulturist Jim Gerdemann. This selection is characterized by much more rounded foliage, lower shrubbier growth, and late season large crimson fruit.

Cold hardy to USDA zone 8a and above, or to 10 degrees Fahrenheit.