Hebrew:גּוּיַאבָה תּוּתִית, guyava tutit
Family: Myrtaceae
Scientific name: Psidium cattleyanum
The strawberry guava tree belongs to the same genus as the common guava (Psidium), but its fruit differs in fragrance and taste. It is called strawberry guava because the flavor of its fruit resembles that of a strawberry; however, it is not a hybrid of guava and strawberry.
The strawberry guava tree is native to Brazil. It was introduced to Israel in recent years.
Tree or vegetable: Strawberry guava is classified as a tree.
Orlah & neta revay (waiting three years for fruit & fourth-year trees): The plant is often grown as an ornamental bush or a living fence in home yards. Only fruit trees as subject to the laws of orlah and neta revay, not to trees designated for other purposes, such as décor or fencing. Therefore, if the plant was planted only as a living fence and this is apparent from the way it was planted, orlah laws do not apply. However, if planted also for its fruit, orlah and neta revay laws apply.
Shehechiyanu (blessing for new fruit): While the tree produces several times during the year, it is unavailable during winter, so shehechiyanu should be said.
