Ugni molinae ‘Villarica Strawberry’

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.

‘Villarica Strawberry’ is selection from Paul Barney of Edulis Nursery in the UK who collected this variety from Pucón, Chile. This selection is purportedly quite a bit more cold hardy that other Chilean Guava varieties readily available for sale. Otherwise, this selection has good fruit similar to ‘Burbank’ and has very attractive red stems on new growth.

Cold hardy to USDA zone 7b and above, or to 5 degrees Fahrenheit.

For sale are 1 gallon potted plants.