Psidium friedrichsthalianum is a tropical fruit native to Central America, especially Costa Rica. It belongs to the Myrtaceae family, the same family as guavas.
Description
- Appearance: Small, round or slightly oval fruit with smooth, greenish-yellow skin when ripe.
- Pulp: Bright yellow, juicy, and tart with many small seeds.
- Taste: Highly acidic and tangy; often described as a mix of lemon, passion fruit, and guava.
- Size: Typically 2–4 cm in diameter.
Uses
- Juices and Beverages – Popular in Costa Rica for tangy fruit drinks.
- Jams and Jellies – The tart pulp balances sugar well.
- Desserts – Can be used in pies, sorbets, or sauces.
- Culinary Flavoring – Adds acidity to savory dishes or marinades.
Nutritional Highlights
- Rich in vitamin C
- Contains antioxidants and dietary fiber
- Low in calories
Cultivation
- Grows in tropical climates.
- Prefers well-drained soil and full sun.
- Harvested when fruits turn yellowish and slightly soft.
💡 Fun Fact: In Costa Rica, this fruit is often called “guayabilla” and is more popular locally than in international markets because of its tart flavor.
If you want, I can also provide:
- A simple recipe for Psidium friedrichsthalianum juice 🍹
- How to make jams or jellies from this fruit
- Tips for growing it in a home garden.
Do you want the juice recipe next?