Family: Myrtaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Psidium guineense (Brazilian guava) is a small fruit tree or shrub native to Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and much of tropical South America. It is closely related to common guava and is valued for its edible fruits, which are small, round, and aromatic with a sweet-tart flavor. The plant typically has smooth mottled bark, oval leaves, and white flowers that attract pollinators. Brazilian guava is sometimes cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions as a backyard fruit tree, ornamental plant, or for use in jams, beverages, and traditional remedies. Its adaptability to a wide range of environmental conditions and ability to grow in disturbed areas have contributed to its spread outside its native range.

Risks & Threats
Although Psidium guineense is currently not known to be naturalized in the Hawaiian Islands, it possesses several traits that are cause for concern in tropical island ecosystems. Like other guava species, it can produce abundant fruit that is readily dispersed by birds, pigs, and other animals, allowing it to spread into forests and unmanaged landscapes. It is also capable of forming dense thickets that may outcompete native vegetation, alter habitat structure, and interfere with forest regeneration. In tropical regions elsewhere, related guava species have become aggressive invasive plants with significant ecological impacts. Because of these risks, caution is advised when planting Brazilian guava in Hawaii. Whenever possible, choosing a low risk or native alternative is recommended to help protect Hawaii’s unique ecosystems and biodiversity.

High Risk Traits:

• Naturalized in India (Tripura)
  
• Broad climate tolerance (tropical to subtropical, drought-resistant)
  
• Introduced to Pacific islands (French Polynesia, Guam, Hawaii)
  
• Congeneric weed (P. guajava is a major weed)
  
• Host for fruit flies and mistletoe
  
• Produces viable seeds
  
• Hybridizes with P. guajava
  
• Dispersed intentionally by people (jelly, baking)
  
• Bird-dispersed (fleshy fruits)
  
• Seeds survive gut passage
  
• Prolific seed production (>1000 seeds/m² likely)

Low Risk Traits:

• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Not allelopathic or parasitic
  
• Not toxic to humans or animals
  
• No vegetative spread reported
  
• No wind, water, or external animal dispersal