Please help me identify this tree...is this an edible fruit?

Discussion in 'Plants: Identification' started by Autumn, Feb 23, 2009.

  1. Autumn

    Autumn Member

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    Hi! I can't figure out what type of tree this is or if this fruit is edible. The fruit starts green and turns deep red and is between 1 and 2 inches in diameter. The inside of the fruit is white with some white seeds. I worry that my kids will try to eat them and want to make sure they are not poisonous. Thanks so much!
     

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  2. Michael F

    Michael F Paragon of Plants Forums Moderator 10 Years

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    Psidium littorale (Strawberry Guava; syn. P. cattleianum). Edible.
     
  3. Autumn

    Autumn Member

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    Thanks so much! Now I know not to worry if the kids pick one up and eat it!! We have a larger type of guava in our yard also.

    There is one more thing I am worried about. This little bush has berries that look alot like blueberries but I am pretty sure they are not...again, I am worried about my kids eating them.
     

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  4. saltcedar

    saltcedar Rising Contributor 10 Years

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  5. Chungii V

    Chungii V Active Member

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    Raphiolepis (indica?), apparently edible when cooked. Can't say I've tried though :}
     
  6. lorax

    lorax Rising Contributor 10 Years

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    Those could also be Vaccinium floribundum - Andean Highbush Blueberry, but I suspect Chris is right - the leaves seem too big for mortiños.
     
  7. Chungii V

    Chungii V Active Member

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    It's definitely Raphiolepis, I am thinking it may be the one sold as Springtime here, Rhaphiolepis x delacourii botanical name. R. indica has white flowers darker rounded leaves. There are about a dozen species I think...
     
  8. Autumn

    Autumn Member

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    Thank you all so much! This plant definitely has pink flowers.
     
  9. Ron B

    Ron B Paragon of Plants 10 Years

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    Raphiolepis is common in west coast horticulture, you are probably likely to come across the same variety you have at a local outlet or garden.
     
  10. Michael F

    Michael F Paragon of Plants Forums Moderator 10 Years

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    Not just not worry; I'd encourage them to eat as much of the Guava as they can, as long as it is ripe (red). Fruit like this is good for you! Far better than sweets and so on.
     

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